Meaning:
Judy Collins, a renowned musician, and songwriter, offers valuable insight into her creative process with the quote, "If I give myself a chore, for instance, when I was writing the songs for Shameless, I said to myself, Now, every day for 90 days you have to write a song; good, bad or indifferent. So that was really helpful." This statement sheds light on the discipline and determination required to produce creative work consistently. Collins' approach to songwriting highlights the importance of setting specific goals and committing to the daily practice of honing one's craft.
The quote underscores the significance of self-imposed challenges and deadlines in the creative process. By establishing a clear task for herself—writing a song every day for 90 days—Collins created a structured framework within which to cultivate her creativity. This approach reflects a deep understanding of the need for regular, sustained effort to overcome creative blocks and refine one's skills.
Collins' emphasis on the act of creating daily, regardless of the outcome, speaks to the notion that inspiration often arises from the process of doing the work itself. By relinquishing the pressure to produce a masterpiece with each song, she allowed herself the freedom to explore ideas, experiment with different musical elements, and refine her songwriting abilities. This willingness to embrace imperfection and treat each song as part of a larger, ongoing creative journey is a testament to Collins' dedication to her craft.
Furthermore, Collins' disciplined approach to songwriting demonstrates the value of perseverance and resilience in the face of creative challenges. The commitment to writing a song every day for an extended period necessitates a strong work ethic and a willingness to confront obstacles head-on. This mindset is crucial for artists seeking to maintain their creative momentum and push through periods of uncertainty or self-doubt.
Collins' quote also serves as a source of motivation and encouragement for aspiring musicians and creatives. It conveys the message that consistent effort and a structured approach to practice can yield significant results over time. By sharing her personal experience of setting and meeting her own creative challenges, Collins inspires others to embrace similar methods in their pursuit of artistic growth and expression.
In conclusion, Judy Collins' quote offers valuable insights into the disciplined approach she adopted during the songwriting process for "Shameless." Her commitment to writing a song every day for 90 days exemplifies the power of self-imposed challenges, the importance of consistent effort, and the value of perseverance in creative endeavors. By sharing her experience, Collins provides a compelling example of how structured practice, resilience, and a willingness to embrace imperfection can contribute to the development of one's artistic skills and the realization of creative goals.