Meaning: This quote by musician Bobby McFerrin provides insight into his creative process and the environment in which he finds inspiration. McFerrin's preference for a very dark house, devoid of light, reflects his need for solitude and introspection. He values the stillness and quietness of such a space, which allows him to delve into his thoughts and emotions, ultimately leading to the creation of music that is deeply personal to him. The act of sitting in darkness and thinking suggests a meditative state, where he is able to connect with his inner self and draw from his personal experiences and feelings.

When McFerrin mentions that once he is still and quiet inside, he will begin, he is highlighting the importance of achieving a sense of inner calm and clarity before embarking on the creative process. This emphasis on internal stillness as a precursor to creativity underscores the notion that the most profound artistic expressions often stem from a place of deep introspection and emotional resonance.

Furthermore, the diversity of musical influences that McFerrin mentions - from Bach to blues, TV themes to nursery rhymes, and jazz pieces - speaks to the breadth of his musical palette. His openness to drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres and sources underscores his versatility as a musician and his willingness to explore and incorporate varied musical elements into his work. This eclecticism is indicative of an artist who is unbound by traditional boundaries and is eager to push the envelope of musical expression.

The quote also sheds light on the deeply personal nature of McFerrin's creative process. His assertion that the music he creates is very personal underscores the idea that his compositions are infused with his own experiences, emotions, and perspectives. This personal connection to his music likely contributes to the authenticity and sincerity that is palpable in his performances and compositions.

In essence, this quote provides a glimpse into the inner workings of Bobby McFerrin's creative mind and the environment that he finds conducive to his artistic process. It reveals his need for solitude and introspection, his emphasis on internal stillness as a precursor to creativity, his openness to diverse musical influences, and the deeply personal nature of his musical creations. By offering this insight, the quote invites us to appreciate the depth and complexity of the creative journey and the myriad sources of inspiration that can inform artistic expression.