Meaning: Johnny Cash, the iconic musician known for his deep, resonant voice and rebellious spirit, once shared a candid insight into his creative process when he said, "I start a lot more songs than I finish, because I realize when I get into them, they're no good. I don't throw them away, I just put them away, store them, get them out of sight." This quote offers a glimpse into the inner workings of a prolific songwriter and performer, shedding light on the challenges and realities of the creative process.

For many artists, the act of creation is often marked by a continuous cycle of inspiration, exploration, and evaluation. In the context of songwriting, this process can be particularly intricate, as musicians strive to capture emotion, narrative, and melody within the confines of a single composition. Cash's admission that he starts more songs than he finishes underscores the inherent difficulty of translating creative impulses into fully realized works of art. It speaks to the vulnerability and uncertainty that artists often grapple with as they navigate the tumultuous terrain of creativity.

The acknowledgment that some songs simply do not measure up to the artist's expectations or standards is a sentiment that resonates with creators across various disciplines. The realization that a particular piece of work is "no good" can be a humbling and disheartening experience, yet it also serves as a testament to the artist's discerning eye and uncompromising commitment to quality. Rather than discarding these incomplete or unsatisfactory creations, Cash articulates his decision to "put them away, store them, get them out of sight," suggesting a deliberate act of preservation and reflection. This approach reflects a sense of reverence for the creative process, acknowledging that even the most imperfect or unfinished works hold potential value and significance.

Furthermore, the act of setting aside unfinished songs can be viewed as a form of artistic incubation. By removing these works from immediate focus, artists like Cash afford themselves the opportunity to revisit and reconsider their initial ideas at a later time. This process of revisitation and revision is integral to the evolution of creative work, as it allows for new perspectives and insights to inform the development of incomplete compositions. In this way, the act of "storing" unfinished songs becomes a strategic and purposeful endeavor, emblematic of an artist's enduring dedication to their craft.

Cash's candid admission also serves as a reminder that creative endeavors are inherently iterative. The journey from initial inspiration to final realization is often marked by a series of starts and stops, breakthroughs and setbacks. The willingness to acknowledge and accept the imperfections and limitations of one's creative output is a testament to the artist's resilience and adaptability. It reflects an understanding that the pursuit of artistic excellence is an ongoing, dynamic process that necessitates an openness to experimentation and the possibility of failure.

In conclusion, Johnny Cash's reflection on his approach to songwriting offers a poignant and insightful perspective on the complexities of the creative process. His willingness to candidly acknowledge the challenges and uncertainties inherent in his craft underscores the universal nature of artistic struggle and resilience. By choosing to preserve and revisit unfinished songs, Cash exemplifies a commitment to growth, self-reflection, and the enduring pursuit of artistic expression. This quote serves as a poignant reminder that creativity is a journey marked by both triumphs and tribulations, and that the willingness to confront and learn from one's creative shortcomings is an essential aspect of artistic growth and development.