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One day while I was composing, the telephone
rang. A lady’s voice said,
“Is this John Cage, the percussion
composer?” I said, “Yes.” She said,
“This is the J. Walter Thompson
Company.” I didn’t know what that was,
but she explained that their business
was advertising. She said,
“Hold on. One of our directors
wants to speak to you.” During a pause
my mind went back to my composition.
Then suddenly a man’s voice said,
“Mr. Cage, are you willing to
prostitute your art?” I said, “Yes.” He
said, “Well, bring us some samples
Friday at two.” I did. After
hearing a few recordings, one of the
directors said to me, “Wait a minute.”
Then seven directors formed what looked
like a football huddle. From this
one of them finally emerged, came
over to me, and said,
“You’re too good for us. We’re
going to save you for Robinson Crusoe.”
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