Music and woman I cannot but give way to, whatever my business is.

The quote "Music and woman I cannot but give way to, whatever my business is." by Samuel Pepys reveals a candid and human admission of personal weakness or deep admiration. Pepys is essentially saying that no matter how pressing his business or responsibilities may be, the allure of music and women is powerful enough to distract or captivate him. This reflects a conflict between duty and desire, showing how certain passions can momentarily override even the most serious commitments.

Samuel Pepys, a 17th-century English diarist and naval administrator, is renowned for his detailed journals that chronicle daily life, politics, and personal experiences during Restoration England. This quote comes from one of his many entries where he often wrote frankly about his pleasures, distractions, and human flaws. In a time when discipline and public duty were highly valued, Pepys’s confession adds a relatable and humorous touch, illustrating how deeply art and attraction can affect even the most diligent of men.

The quote also highlights the timelessness of aesthetic and emotional temptations. Throughout history, both music—as a form of art that stirs the soul—and romantic longing have been seen as forces capable of derailing concentration or redirecting energy. Pepys's remark, though personal, represents a universal truth about how powerful beauty and emotion are in shaping human behavior.

In essence, Pepys is acknowledging the irresistible pull of pleasure and sentiment in the midst of professional duty. It’s a light-hearted yet honest reflection on human vulnerability, reminding us that even the most structured lives are not immune to the enchantments of music and love.