The answer would be a symbol, as an object used in literature or artwork could be an interpretation of meaning it could hold. take for example edgar allen poe. the heart underneath his floorboard represented his guilt for the murder of his friend. the heart was a symbol that carried meaning behind it.
Classical music is defined as an orchestra music that uses homophonic melodies.
The phrase "Life affects art" is true when the history of classical music is being discussed. During the 1750, classical music emerged. The introduction of this type of music was done as a rebellion against the strict standards that Baroque music follow which was mandated by the the Church.
Composers became more creative and versatile in making their own music that veered from the standard Baroque music. As they discovered more about themselves and their talents, their music reflected these discoveries. Their inspiration in creating classical music was from their own life experiences. Thus, life affects art.