Artist Eric Fischl speaks about the difficulties of creative doubt…
“…there’s also the emotional side of the work, the psychological side where you go in and explore feelings and relationships and memories. Often times you find things you’re not ready for and you can’t bear that this is in front of you…
“I certainly have times where I walk around in my studio thinking: “I can’t paint, I’m not as good as I think I am, I’m certainly not as good as everyone else thinks I am.” And I’m freaked. The other side is when you’ve opened a door and you feel the weight of the responsibility.
“There’s something sacred about paint. You make a pact with the painting, you will be responsible for whatever you’re putting on it, what you find out.”
Can the same be said about the written word?
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December 6, 2012 at 6:33 am
A Simple Village Undertaker
Absolutely, whether it be “real writing” or blogging.
There have been things I have written, feeling downright orgasmic over…but no one read them…no one cared.
Then there are things that I threw together on a whim as filler, that people copy, use and pay homage over….
Go figure.
But each time you wake your computer or pick up a pen, you are taking a chance and putting “it” out there. It being part of yourself.
Taking chances are fun.
December 6, 2012 at 10:24 am
lazarusdodge
“Taking a chance” is an apt phrase, Ray. Whether it be a blog post or a book, a simple poem, or just a bit of editorial prose, you’re putting yourself in front of friends and strangers, ducking down with helmet on, and waiting for (hoping for?) a response.
Risk is certainly part of the process – and it always depends how much you’re willing to take on…
– J.
December 7, 2012 at 6:28 am
David Kanigan
This post left its mark with me Jeff. Thank you.
December 7, 2012 at 8:36 pm
lazarusdodge
These things leave a mark on me as well. So why shouldn’t I share? 🙂
– J.