Meaning:
The quote by Eric Clapton reflects his initial impression of playing the guitar. Clapton is a renowned English rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who has achieved legendary status in the music industry. In the quote, he describes how the drawings of people playing the guitar made it seem accessible and not too difficult to learn.
Clapton's words reflect the common experience of many aspiring musicians who are drawn to an instrument by the allure of seeing others play it. The imagery of "drawings of the guys playing looked great and bits of string around their necks" suggests that Clapton was captivated by the visual representation of musicians playing guitars, which sparked his interest in learning to play himself.
The phrase "didn't seem to be that difficult a thing to do, or that inaccessible" indicates that Clapton perceived playing the guitar as a reachable goal. This perception likely provided him with the motivation and confidence to embark on his own musical journey. It also highlights the importance of representation and visibility in inspiring individuals to pursue their interests and passions.
Clapton's quote also underscores the power of visual inspiration in the form of drawings. The visual depiction of musicians playing the guitar not only caught his attention but also conveyed a sense of attainability. This aligns with the notion that visual stimuli can have a profound influence on one's aspirations and pursuits, as they can make a skill or activity appear more approachable and achievable.
Furthermore, the mention of "bits of string around their necks" in the quote may allude to the iconic image of guitarists wearing their instruments with a strap, further reinforcing the visual association of the guitar as an integral part of a musician's identity. This image likely contributed to Clapton's perception of the guitar as a fundamental and accessible tool for musical expression.
Overall, Eric Clapton's quote provides insight into the initial allure and perceived accessibility of playing the guitar. It speaks to the impact of visual representation, the influence of iconic imagery, and the role of perception in shaping one's pursuit of musical proficiency. Clapton's words also carry a universal message about the power of inspiration and the significance of relatable imagery in fueling creative endeavors.