blog post #41 by Science Fiction Author Clara Bush
With the recent tragic death of talented actor, Robin Williams, those of us in pursue of creative endeavors might pause a moment and reflect on the seemingly singularity, and sometimes lonely, aspects of living life as an actor, artist, singer, musician, photographer, dancer, poet, or writer. The efforts to share one’s talent with others is an endearing, yet dangerous struggle within…emotionally, mentally, and physically.
Whenever the struggle becomes more than I can handle, I reach for the Golden Oreos. Yes, the cookies. And also advice from those who have cleared a path for me to follow as a writer. Only those who live, or have lived, a life dedicated to the arts understand the ecstasy laden torment.
Thankfully, many well-known and talented writers have left advice for us to follow.
In my upcoming series, Living Life As A Writer (LLAAW), I will share these Golden Oreos of wisdom so that during a more than difficult writing session, cookie crumbs of motivation and direction might lead us through the underbrush and onto a clear road.
Today’s Golden Oreos
By Robin Williams
July 21, 1951—August 11, 2014
“You’re only given a little spark of madness.
You mustn’t lose it.”
***
“Imagining something is better than remembering something.”
The World According To Garp, 1982
***
“Please, don’t worry so much.
Because in the end,
none of us have very long on this Earth.
Life is fleeting.”
Jack, 1996
***
I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up all alone,
it’s not.
The worst thing in life is to end up with people that make you feel alone.
World’s Greatest Dad, 2009
***
“All you have to do is think one happy thought,
and you’ll fly like me.”
Hook, 1991
***
And Lastly, Please Remember
“No matter what anybody tells you,
words and ideas can change the world.”
Dead Poets Society, 1989
From One Of My Readers
MoonNymph810 left the following comment which I think honors the memory of Robin Williams. Thank you for sharing, Moon Nymph.
And you were just like the moon,
so lonely,
so full of imperfections.
But just like the moon,
you shined in times of darkness.
so lonely,
so full of imperfections.
But just like the moon,
you shined in times of darkness.
—Anonymous
Spider Image on Pixabay
by Bellezza87
The Science Fiction Reality blog is a little science, a little fiction, a little about writing, and a lot of real.
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Nicely written. Yes, I agree that many creative people suffer from some type of depression – perhaps constantly. To be recognized for their talents, to be held in esteem by their peers, and to be seen as someone who does well by all – it’s not easy being a creative individual, but it’s the demons within that cry for yet more than anything can bring to their lists of achievements. It’s one thing not easily researched nor spoken about, but with His Passing, perhaps more people will start talking about it…. because it does happen. I know that depression well, and sometimes it’s not easy to hide.
You are right Tony. Sadly. In creative endeavors—in all forms of art—the artist works alone. Never knowing for sure if his/her work will be recognized and appreciated. Yet, there lives within the artist that demon, or perhaps god, who insists we must create the art form from which others might grow, gain insight, and enjoy.
As always, thank you for your comment. It shows both wisdom and vision.
More than depression. I feel the loneliness.
I think sometimes the art form is an extension of the self.. and sometimes the art form is what gets the attention, the praise, or the fame (from our self and from others). But, when WE dont give the self attention or praise it can be easy to lose touch with who WE are. We should all begin each day with a grateful heart, for what we create and for who we are.
Tormented by self doubt and the desire for appreciation of our art form, I think, we sometimes forget this extension is a gift. I heard one artist describe it as “a gift or perhaps a curse.”
It is hard to find peace, when your art form craves your attention night and day.
Thank you, C. Your comment is one an artist would do well to remember.