A story about a book

Last Monday I watched a random YouTube video on a channel I’d never seen before. A quote came on the screen from a book I’d never heard of.

The object isn’t to make art, it’s to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.

– Robert Henri

I bought the book based on that quote alone and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. I don’t know if it’s because of the decisions I’m making about my life and the direction I want to go in or something else. But this book spoke to me like no other ever has! The name of it is “The Creative Act: A Way of Living” by Rick Rubin. Yes, the record producer, Rick Rubin.

It’s a series of very short chapters, some only a page or two long, about the creative process in general, about life and it’s just really engrossing. Because of the way it’s laid out it was a very easy to pick up while waiting in line, on break at work, etc.

It’s definitely one of those books that I will reread in the very near future but this time taking notes. It’s really changed my mindset about creativity and (re)stoking my own creativity which has had sparks over the years but has always gone out as quick as it started. This time, after reading this book, I think I can fan the flame enough to scratch some creative itches I’ve had over the years. Sorry for all the fire metaphors, but they work!

You don’t have to feel creative to check out this book because as the author says life is about being creative to solve problems in your daily life. Check this book out and be open to what’s on the pages!