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About this quote

What does it mean?
Smith states he prefers writing happy songs but often ends up writing sad ones.
In plain terms
He wants to write happy music but defaults to sad themes.
What can you take from it?
Art often reflects pain even when we aim for joy.

Where it applies

  • creative process
  • mood management
  • songwriting

Putting it to work

  • try happy themes
  • accept output

Questions to consider

  • Why do we create what we feel?
  • Can you force happy art?

Another view

It contrasts with his overall body of work.

More from Elliott Smith

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  2. 'I hope that Dreamworks can sell enough records that they're happy - so I don't get dropped.'

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  3. [when asked about cigarettes] 'I don't recommend them... but I smoke them.' - seen at http://youtube.com/watch?v=nJN1wdDUpDg

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