Meaning: This thought-provoking quote by Ned Rorem, an American composer and diarist, delves into the idea that artists must maintain a certain level of childlike wonder and perception in order to continue creating meaningful and impactful work. Rorem suggests that an artist's ability to see the world through the eyes of a child is essential to their artistic development and expression. This quote reflects the notion that creativity and artistic vision are deeply rooted in the ability to embrace and maintain a sense of innocence, curiosity, and openness to the world.

Rorem's assertion that "no artist grows up" challenges the conventional notion of maturity and adulthood as a prerequisite for artistic development. Instead, he proposes that shedding the perceptions of childhood would result in the artist ceasing to be an artist. This perspective highlights the importance of retaining a youthful outlook and embracing the uninhibited imagination and spontaneity often associated with childhood. It suggests that the artist's ability to perceive the world with fresh eyes, unencumbered by the constraints of adult reasoning and preconceptions, is crucial for the ongoing evolution of their artistic practice.

The quote also implies that the act of shedding the perceptions of childhood would lead to a loss of the qualities that make an artist truly creative and imaginative. Rorem's assertion challenges the notion that artistic development requires a departure from childlike perceptions and instead advocates for the preservation of these perceptions as a source of artistic inspiration and insight. By embracing the unfiltered and unstructured perspective of childhood, artists can tap into a wellspring of creativity and originality that might otherwise be stifled by the constraints of adult thinking.

Rorem's viewpoint is particularly relevant in the context of the creative process, as it underscores the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder, spontaneity, and emotional authenticity in artistic endeavors. The quote suggests that artists should strive to preserve the innocence and unjaded outlook of childhood in order to infuse their work with freshness, sincerity, and originality. By embracing the perceptions of childhood, artists can tap into a well of creativity and emotional depth that is often associated with youthful innocence and unbridled imagination.

In conclusion, Ned Rorem's assertion that "no artist grows up: If he sheds the perceptions of childhood, he ceases being an artist" challenges conventional notions of artistic development and maturity. It underscores the importance of maintaining a childlike perception and innocence as a source of creative inspiration and authenticity in artistic expression. This quote serves as a reminder of the value of embracing the unfiltered and unencumbered perspective of childhood as a catalyst for ongoing artistic growth and innovation.