Meaning: The quote "I know intuitively when the work is right, no training can teach you this, it is simply a matter of feeling" by Robert Ryan, an American actor known for his roles in film noirs and Westerns, encapsulates the idea that certain aspects of artistic creation cannot be learned through traditional training or education. Instead, these aspects are deeply personal and intuitive, relying on a sense of feeling and instinct. In the context of the performing arts, this quote speaks to the unique connection between an artist and their work, emphasizing the importance of intuition and emotional resonance in the creative process.

Robert Ryan's statement reflects the subjective nature of artistic expression and the inherent difficulty in quantifying or teaching certain elements of artistic creation. While technical skills and knowledge can certainly be acquired through training and education, there remains a distinct, ineffable quality to artistic work that defies conventional instruction. This sentiment resonates not only with actors but also with artists, writers, musicians, and creators across various disciplines who rely on intuition and emotional authenticity to guide their creative output.

In the realm of acting, the quote suggests that the ability to discern when a performance is "right" goes beyond the mastery of acting techniques or the memorization of lines. It implies a deeply personal connection to the material, a keen sensitivity to the nuances of character and emotion, and an innate understanding of when a portrayal is authentic and compelling. This intuitive sense of when the work is "right" speaks to the actor's capacity to tap into their own emotions and experiences, allowing them to infuse their performance with depth and truth.

Furthermore, Ryan's assertion underscores the notion that creativity is not solely a product of learned skills, but also a manifestation of an individual's innermost feelings and instincts. It suggests that the most powerful and resonant artistic expressions often arise from a place of genuine emotion and personal connection, rather than from adherence to external rules or methods. This sentiment aligns with the romanticized idea of the artist as a vessel for raw, unfiltered expression, channeling their innermost thoughts and emotions into their work.

In a broader sense, the quote can be interpreted as a celebration of artistic intuition and the intrinsic value of personal, subjective judgment in creative endeavors. It implies that there are aspects of artistic creation that elude rational explanation or formal instruction, and that an artist's own inner compass is an invaluable guide in determining the success and authenticity of their work. This recognition of the primacy of feeling and intuition in artistic creation serves as a reminder of the deeply personal and emotional nature of the creative process.

Ultimately, Robert Ryan's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intangible, instinctual aspects of artistic expression that transcend formal training and technical expertise. It speaks to the deeply personal, emotional, and intuitive nature of creativity, highlighting the significance of an artist's internal sense of "rightness" in their work. By embracing the role of intuition and feeling in the creative process, artists can cultivate a deeper connection to their craft and produce works that are imbued with authenticity and emotional resonance.