Meaning: The quote "From the age of six I wanted to be an artist. At that point I meant a painter, but it turned out what I really meant was I was someone who was very interested in watching the world and making copies of it." by Reynolds Price, a renowned American novelist, captures the essence of artistic inspiration and the evolution of creative expression. In this quote, Price reflects on his childhood aspirations and the realization that his desire to be an artist extended beyond traditional notions of painting to encompass a deeper fascination with observing the world and translating it into various forms of art.

Reynolds Price, who was born in 1933 and passed away in 2011, was a prolific writer known for his novels, short stories, essays, and poetry. His works often delved into themes of family, religion, and the complexities of human relationships, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. Throughout his career, Price exhibited a keen sensitivity to the nuances of human experience, which is evident in the introspective nature of the quote in question.

The quote offers insight into the early origins of Price's artistic inclinations, tracing his aspirations back to the age of six. The mention of wanting to be an artist at such a young age suggests an innate inclination towards creativity and a deep-seated passion for artistic expression. This early desire to be a painter speaks to the universal allure of visual art and the profound impact it can have on individuals from a young age. The act of creating, whether through painting, drawing, or other forms of visual representation, often serves as a powerful means of engaging with the world and expressing one's unique perspective.

However, Price's reflection also reveals a crucial realization about the true nature of his artistic calling. He recognizes that his initial concept of being an artist as a painter was merely a starting point, a symbolic representation of a deeper impulse to engage with the world in a profound and meaningful way. The shift from wanting to be a painter to understanding himself as someone "very interested in watching the world and making copies of it" underscores the transformative journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration.

This shift in perspective speaks to the broader concept of artistic evolution and the multifaceted nature of creative expression. It highlights the idea that the essence of being an artist lies not only in the specific medium one chooses but also in the act of observation, interpretation, and reinterpretation of the world. Price's words invite contemplation on the diverse forms of artistic expression and the myriad ways in which individuals engage with their surroundings to create art that resonates with others.

Furthermore, the quote offers a glimpse into the intrinsic connection between art and the act of perception. Price's acknowledgment of being "very interested in watching the world" emphasizes the role of observation and introspection in the creative process. It suggests that artists are inherently attuned to the world around them, constantly seeking inspiration and finding meaning in the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of life. Whether through visual art, literature, music, or other creative endeavors, the act of "making copies" of the world reflects a deep-seated impulse to capture and reinterpret the essence of existence through artistic representation.

In conclusion, Reynolds Price's quote encapsulates the profound journey of artistic self-discovery and the expansive nature of creative expression. It invites contemplation on the evolving aspirations of artists, the intrinsic relationship between art and perception, and the transformative power of engaging with the world through various forms of artistic expression. Through his introspective reflection, Price offers a poignant reminder of the boundless potential of artistic inspiration and the enduring impact of translating the world into art.