| The title of the composition is derived from the Greek philosopher, Diogenes of Sinope (±400 B.C.). Diogenes is generally considered the founder of the Cynics, an ancient school of philosophy. The composition is made up of three pieces following into each other without a break, and each based on a traditional story about Diogenes. In the first part it is Diogenes meeting with Alexander the Great. Alexander opened the conversation with: I am Alexander the Great. Then Diogenes said: And I am Diogenes the Cynic. Alexander then asked him what way he could serve him. You can step out of my sunlight, the philosopher replied. Alexander is said to have been so struck with the Cynic's self-possession that he went away remarking: If I were not Alexander, I should wish to be Diogenes. According to tradition, Diogenes died at Corinth on the same day as Alexander the Great (323 B.C.). The death of Diogenes and the philosophies which he left behind inspired the middle movement. The inspiration for the last movement came from the best legend surrounding Diogenes. According to this popular story, Diogenes walked through Athens in broad daylight carrying a lighting lamp, saying that he was looking for an honest man. |
