Meaning: This quote by W. Somerset Maugham, a renowned English playwright, reflects the deep-seated connection between the act of creation and the innermost being of an artist. Maugham suggests that the artist's creative output is not just a conscious choice but an inherent need, akin to the natural inclination of water to flow downhill. This quote encapsulates the essence of artistic expression and the profound motivation behind an artist's work.

In essence, Maugham is highlighting the intrinsic and almost instinctual drive that compels artists to create. The act of creation, whether it be through painting, writing, music, or any other form of artistic expression, is an essential means for the artist to find release and liberation for their soul. It is a way for the artist to delve into their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and to externalize them through their chosen medium. Through this process, the artist seeks to unburden themselves, to express themselves, and to connect with others on a deep and meaningful level.

Maugham's comparison of the artist's creative impulse to the natural flow of water down a hill is particularly evocative. Water's movement down a hill is an innate and unyielding force, driven by the laws of nature. Similarly, the artist's compulsion to create is rooted in their very nature, an irrepressible urge that cannot be denied. Just as water follows the path of least resistance, the artist's creativity flows from within, seeking its own course of expression.

Furthermore, this quote speaks to the universal and timeless nature of the artist's drive to create. Throughout history and across cultures, artists have felt this profound need to give form to their innermost thoughts and feelings. Whether driven by a desire for self-expression, a quest for truth, a need to communicate with others, or a combination of these and other motivations, the artist's creative impulse remains a fundamental aspect of human existence.

The liberation of the soul that Maugham refers to is a deeply personal and transformative process. Through their creative endeavors, artists often find solace, catharsis, and a sense of purpose. In the act of creation, they can confront and grapple with their inner demons, celebrate their joys, and explore the complexities of the human experience. The liberation of the soul through art is not just a solitary journey; it also allows for connections to be forged between the artist and their audience, who may find resonance and meaning in the artist's work.

In conclusion, W. Somerset Maugham's quote encapsulates the profound and intrinsic relationship between the artist and their creative impulse. By likening the artist's need to create to the natural flow of water down a hill, Maugham emphasizes the inevitability and essential nature of the artist's creative drive. The act of creation becomes a means for the artist to liberate their soul, to engage with their innermost self, and to connect with others. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power and significance of artistic expression in the human experience.