Meaning: Van Morrison, a renowned musician and songwriter, succinctly captures the essence of his creative process and career in the quote, "I write songs. Then, I record them. And, later, maybe I perform them on stage. That's what I do. That's my job. Simple." This quote provides insight into the fundamental activities that define his profession as a musician and highlights the simplicity and clarity with which he approaches his craft.

At the core of Morrison's quote is the act of songwriting, the initial and fundamental stage of his creative process. For many songwriters, the process of crafting lyrics and melodies is a deeply personal and introspective endeavor. It often involves drawing from personal experiences, emotions, and observations to create music that resonates with both the artist and the audience. Morrison's statement emphasizes the importance of this foundational step in his music-making process, suggesting that the act of writing songs is the starting point from which his musical journey unfolds.

Following the songwriting stage, Morrison mentions the recording process as the next step in his musical workflow. This phase involves bringing the written songs to life through the recording studio, where musicians, producers, and engineers collaborate to capture and refine the sonic vision of the compositions. Recording allows artists to experiment with arrangements, instrumentation, and production techniques, shaping the songs into completed works that can be shared with the world. By acknowledging the significance of recording in his quote, Morrison underscores the transformative role of this stage in translating his creative ideas into tangible musical expressions.

Moreover, Morrison's mention of performing songs on stage reflects the culmination of his creative process and the ultimate connection with his audience. Live performances offer artists the opportunity to share their music in a direct and visceral manner, creating a unique and communal experience with their listeners. The energy and emotion of a live performance can imbue the songs with new life, allowing both the artist and the audience to engage with the music in a dynamic and unfiltered setting. By embracing the stage as a vital component of his artistic journey, Morrison acknowledges the transformative power of live music and the essential role it plays in bringing his songs to fruition.

In addition to illuminating the sequential nature of his creative process, Morrison's quote also conveys a sense of straightforwardness and purpose in his approach to music. By describing songwriting, recording, and performing as the core components of his job, he presents a distilled view of his role as a musician, devoid of unnecessary complexity or pretense. This simplicity underscores his dedication to the craft of creating and sharing music, emphasizing the essential nature of these activities in defining his identity as an artist.

Furthermore, Morrison's assertion that this process is his job reinforces the professional aspect of his career. While the act of creating art is often associated with inspiration and creativity, Morrison's statement reinforces the disciplined and industrious nature of being a working musician. By framing his creative endeavors as a job, he underscores the commitment, effort, and responsibility that underpin his musical vocation, highlighting the diligence and dedication required to sustain a career in the music industry.

In conclusion, Van Morrison's quote encapsulates the essence of his musical journey, from the act of songwriting to the recording and live performance of his compositions. Through his concise and straightforward expression, he reveals the foundational stages of his creative process and underscores the simplicity and purpose that define his role as a musician. This quote serves as a window into the mindset of an artist dedicated to the craft of creating and sharing music, offering valuable insights into the fundamental elements that shape his career and artistic identity.