I have a theory on why artists are considered “self-centered.” It’s because we’re self-employed (some of us only part-time) and always trying to think of ways to market ourselves to a narrow, fickle audience. At any given time, only about .4% of the population is interested in reading what we have to say (or express, depending on your medium). That’s a pretty tough crowd, and it makes for constant self-examination, ongoing self-awareness, and the ability to change, update, and remain flexible in every way. Artists aren’t “self-centered” because we want to be; we’re self-centered because we have to be.
It’s a tiresome process at times and I resent the obligation. What’s more, when we’re not on top of our games, our audience promptly diminishes. (Even our own families and friends lose interest. There is no loyalty in the arts.)
Throughout my life I have heard various family members and friends tell me that I should be writing books or composing columns for a newspaper or some other vaguely rewarding “occupational writer” thing, as if such an appointment is the do-all, end-all. The fact of the matter is, I HAVE been writing professionally for almost two decades. I HAVE been discovered (by peers and fans)… and forgotten… and rediscovered… and reforgotten.
I’m glad that I AM a So-called Writer, that I identify myself as one who makes a living being professionally creative. I’m proud of the work I do for my paid clients, love my own works of honest creativity, and enjoy the voice I have in blogging. I’ve written truthfully, unabashedly and always (or at least mostly) with quality as my ultimate intention.
And I’ve learned that there are few tangible rewards. Gratifying, yes… rewarding (financially speaking), well, not so much.
So next time you, dear reader, feel inclined to urge some young, naive creative to pursue that pie-in-the-sky dream, do so. Do so. It’s great for boosting confidence. Without those pieces of encouragement, I never would have pursued my passion as a full time career. Just keep your expectations in line with reality, and try to impart said reality on to those you encourage. And keep encouraging. And keep encouraging. And keep encouraging.
Remember, please, that we are not really self-centered. We are simply self-employed.
Well put.
ReplyDeleteI laughed when I saw your Iolite ad. I've been out looking at vaporizers.
Is that what I'm endorsing these days?
ReplyDeleteWhat did you think you were advertising?
ReplyDeleteLaxatives, douche, nosebleed therapy, deodorant, and wart remove.
ReplyDeleteThat was the agreement.
Well, I hate to break it to you, Toots, but you've got yourself a marijuana vaporizer right here below where I'm writing.
ReplyDeleteAn all-in-one product. Perfect.
ReplyDelete"An all-in-one product. Perfect."
ReplyDeleteNope, it won't iron sheets, wash windows, or walk the dog. It's just a vaporizer. Have you ever used a vaporizer?
No, but I play one on tv.
ReplyDeleteActually, I'd never heard of the iolite or knew that technology existed before you mentioned it yesterday. And I first assumed it was a vaporizer like you get at the grocery for $9.99. Since those are made for Vic's Vapo-Rub, I assumed it was a similar concept. (I usually put tea tree oil in mine. Smells less bathroom-y.)
Anyway, I can see the appeal of the iolite and I support medicinal marijuana. Last year I tried the herbal approach to arthritis relief. I couldn't deal with the stupidity it caused. (My favorite mishap was when a client showed up for an appointment I had no recollection of making. Oye.)
After reading about the product, I wouldn't agree that it's JUST a vaporizer. Furthermore, maybe if someone is using it for pain management, they WOULD be able to iron the sheets, wash windows and walk the dog! $200 will buy you the whole kit. You'll have to find the herb on your own. :-)
"if someone is using it for pain management, they WOULD be able to iron the sheets"
ReplyDeleteWhich might be a scary concept if they forgot to turn the iron off. I started on M.M. three weeks ago and have hardly NOT been high since then. As you mentioned, there is the stupid aspect, but one does learn to compensate for that to some extent. If I'm both really tired and really high, however, that becomes impossible.
I'm glad to hear you've got something new to help manage your pain. I hope it works well and for a long time.
ReplyDeleteI've been exercising, but I can't say it's made a huge difference in my pain level, but I feel more energetic, less stiff. Some days are better than others.
I should quit drinking. That would probably help a lot!
As for the stupid factor, pot doesn't make you as stupid as drinking does. Of course, if a person is addicted to one, and takes up the other, she or he might just end up with two addictions.
ReplyDeleteHey, writer-girl, you're kind of lagging behind on you...get ready...WRITING, at least for this blog. Miss you.
ReplyDeleteGREAT article. I retired some years ago from a home based business and most of that time raising two sons by myself. Glad to report they seem to be normal adults.
ReplyDeleteBeing self centered is what makes us go into the wood shed and come out with something. If we don't we've failed the world and they are slow to forgive you for it.
My brother is an amazing bass guitar player. He would go to work at a hospital Emergency room, go home lock himself in his room and practice for hours every night. As a result there is not much he cannot play just from hearing it. He is one of the best I've ever heard but not famous. Do we have to be famous? No, but we need encouragement.
He has a family now. Loves them and is committed to them. They don't understand why he spends time in the basement. What is he doing down there? He's an artist.
It takes a lot of guts to cut the world off to be what you were created to be. Many artists feel a lot of guilt. No one feels guilty for going to a job and clocking in from 9 to 5. Artists shouldn't feel guilty because creating things won't fit into what the world considers a normal job.
Well this is too long. To the artists: Go for it! There is nothing wrong with you, but there will be, if all you have to self-center on are regrets 20 years from now.
Thanks, Vanessa, for such a juicy, thoughtful comment. It's nice to be heard by fellow artists.
ReplyDeleteGood for your brother. And you, too.
I visited your blog, of course. Both your face and your photography reflect a contented spirit. I hope that's a fact.
Blessings to you and your two "normal" boys.
:-)
~ Christine