The reward of art is not fame or success but intoxication: that is why so many bad artists are unable to give it up.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Artists create because the act itself is intoxicating, not for fame.
- In plain terms
- Bad artists keep working because making art feels good.
- What can you take from it?
- Create for the joy, not the reward.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do you create?
- Is fame a valid goal?
Another view
External rewards like money are often necessary for survival.
More from Jean Cocteau
Film will only become art when its materials are as inexpensive as pencil and paper.
Permalink to quote #90 Originality consists in trying to be like everybody else - and failing.
Permalink to quote #92 The joy of youth is to disobey; but the trouble is that there are no longer any orders.
Permalink to quote #89
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