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To illustrate the point further, take Bernstein.
In my opinion he is a musical genius (you can debate that all you want). The music for on the waterfront is completely masterful, but the average listener is only going to remember the opening theme, which is a simple melody. Take West Side Story, the orchestral version is actually brilliant (don't like the musical), contains striking harmonies, fantastic orchestration, good part writing etc. But what is West Side story famous for? MARIIIIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAAA!! I JUST MET A GIRL NAMED MARIAAAAAAAAAAA!
Essentially there has to be a balance between simplicity (the lyrical melody) and complexity (adventurous harmony, orchestration, counter-point). Erwartung may be a dextrous explosion of musical genius (to some people), but it's not the kind of music that the public want to hear, and its no wonder that classical music is relying on the 'old warhorses' as was mentioned earlier. We need more warhorses!!!
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