Now that the loose ends of the spring semester have all been tied it is time to settle into summer hibernation mode in Texas. What does summer hibernation mean for me, you ask? Many days working on research and writing under the cool blast of the air conditioner with my dog Oscar at my feet.
In preparation for the research and writing work I have ahead I took it upon myself to check out a new book on creativity – “Steal Like An Artist: 10 Things Nobody Ever Told You About Being Creative” by Austin Kleon. The book is spot on and a quick afternoon read. Among my favorite pieces of advice are to “use your hands”, “don’t wait until you know who you are to get started”, and “be boring (it’s the only way to get work done)”. Kleon uses his own advice and adeptly steals like an artist by providing insightful quotes and anecdotes from great minds the world over. Using this information, Kleon weaves a story of his own struggles with creativity and how he finds inspiration to continue doing great work.
As I make my transition from the hectic days of spring into summer hibernation I have one particular quote from the book that keeps bouncing around in my mind: “Be regular and orderly in your life, so that you may be violent and original in your work” –Gustave Flaubert (pp.118).
Most who know me can attest that I have the regular and orderly component covered – now it is time to get to work and await flashes of violent originality. Let the hibernation begin!