Lust was a positive high-tension cable, plugged into my core, activating a near-epileptic seizure of conviction that this was the one thing I had to do in life.
Will SelfRead
When anyone starts out to do something creative - especially if it seems a little unusual - they seek approval, often from those least inclined to give it. But a creative life cannot be sustained by approval, any more than it can be destroyed by criticism - you learn this as you go on.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Creative endeavors often seek approval from unsupportive sources, yet true creativity thrives independently of external validation.
This quote highlights the struggle that many creative individuals face when starting their projects. Often, they look for approval from others, particularly those who may not appreciate their unique ideas. However, true creativity should not rely on the validation of others; it can flourish in an environment of freedom and self-expression, and criticisms should not deter one from pursuing their vision. Over time, artists and creators come to understand that their work is intrinsically valuable, irrespective of external opinions.
Themes
CreativityApprovalIndependenceSelf-ExpressionCriticism
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech at an art conference, an artist could use this quote to inspire others to pursue their creative passions without fear of judgment.
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The marvellous thing about writing, whether it be fiction or journalism, is that it is simultaneously the most intimate and the most anonymous of meetings between people. It is profoundly intimate in reaching into the psyche of another, at the same time as being devoid of social characteristics, cultural characteristics, economic characteristics.
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One of the most heartening phenomena in today's Britain is the great diversity of the modern nerd - the nerd is out and proud, and while she may love 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' merchandise more than is strictly warranted, she is in every way to be cherished as an exemplar of cosmopolitanism and tolerance.
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People want to be creatively satisfied, and having fun is such an important part of that.
John LasseterRead
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You know, even I have had work or ideas come through me from a source that I honestly cannot identify. And what is that thing? And how are we to relate to it in a way that will not make us lose our minds, but, in fact, might actually keep us sane?
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To create something you must be something.
Johann Wolfgang Von GoetheRead