Meaning: The quote you provided is from the American author and illustrator Robert McCloskey. Known for his children's books, McCloskey has left a lasting legacy with his works such as "Make Way for Ducklings," "Blueberries for Sal," and "One Morning in Maine." The quote captures the sensation of creative liberation and the fulfillment that can come with the successful acceptance of one's work.

In the quote, McCloskey vividly describes the feeling of being constrained or restricted, as if being tied up in a paper bag or a gunny sack with a rope around the neck of it. This imagery conveys a sense of being held back, unable to fully express oneself or share one's creativity with the world. However, with the acceptance of his first book, McCloskey experiences a release, as if everything that had been pent up inside him suddenly spills out. This evocative description suggests a powerful sense of creative freedom and the joy of being able to share one's artistic vision with others.

McCloskey's words resonate with many artists and creators who may have experienced periods of self-doubt, frustration, or rejection before achieving success. The feeling of being confined or stifled creatively is a common experience, and the metaphor of being tied up in a bag or sack with a rope captures this sentiment with vivid imagery. The release and relief that comes with the acceptance of one's work is also a universal experience, as artists often pour their hearts and souls into their creations, hoping for validation and recognition.

It's important to note that creative fulfillment and success can look different for each individual. For some, it may be the publication of a book, while for others, it could be the completion of a painting, the performance of a piece of music, or the launch of a successful entrepreneurial venture. The quote by McCloskey speaks to the transformative power of validation and acceptance in the creative process, and the sense of liberation that comes with being able to fully express oneself.

Robert McCloskey's own journey as an author and illustrator reflects the themes expressed in this quote. His breakthrough came with the publication of "Make Way for Ducklings" in 1941, a beloved children's book that has endured through the decades. The acceptance of this book marked a turning point in McCloskey's career, leading to further success and recognition for his work. The sentiment expressed in the quote likely reflects the overwhelming sense of relief and joy that McCloskey experienced when his creative vision was embraced by readers and critics alike.

In conclusion, Robert McCloskey's quote captures the universal experience of creative liberation and fulfillment that comes with the acceptance of one's work. The imagery of being tied up and then experiencing a spill-out of creativity vividly conveys the emotional journey that many artists and creators can relate to. McCloskey's own success story serves as a testament to the transformative power of creative validation and the joy of being able to share one's artistic vision with the world.