Meaning:
The quote by Kenneth Anger highlights his frustration with censorship and legal constraints imposed by publishing firms. Anger, a renowned author and filmmaker, is known for his controversial and boundary-pushing works that often explore taboo subjects and delve into the darker aspects of human nature. His statement sheds light on the challenges he faces in getting his unfiltered and unapologetic content published without interference from legal entities and publishing houses.
Kenneth Anger is widely recognized for his avant-garde and experimental approach to filmmaking and writing. His works often traverse the realms of the occult, eroticism, and countercultural themes, which have led to clashes with censorship and legal restrictions. Throughout his career, Anger has faced numerous challenges in bringing his uncompromising vision to the public, as his content often pushes the boundaries of societal norms and tests the limits of acceptability.
In the quote, Anger expresses his dissatisfaction with the censorship imposed by lawyers and publishing firms. This suggests that his creative freedom is being hindered by legal considerations and risk-averse attitudes within the publishing industry. Anger's desire to avoid censorship and take risks with his portrayal of living people underscores his commitment to unearthing raw and unfiltered truths in his work, even if it means challenging conventional sensibilities and norms.
The mention of "changing publishers" indicates Anger's willingness to seek alternative avenues for publishing his work, as he seeks a platform that is more accommodating of his uncompromising artistic vision. This decision reflects the ongoing struggle that artists often face in finding publishers and collaborators who are willing to embrace and champion their unorthodox and controversial content, particularly when it involves real-life figures and potentially contentious subject matter.
Anger's frustration with the reluctance of publishers to "take too many risks with living people" speaks to a broader issue within the creative industry, where the fear of legal repercussions and public backlash often leads to self-censorship and conservative decision-making. This dilemma is particularly pertinent in the realm of biographical or exposé-style writing, where the portrayal of real individuals can lead to legal and ethical considerations that may stifle the unbridled expression of the artist.
In conclusion, Kenneth Anger's quote encapsulates the challenges faced by artists who seek to push the boundaries of creative expression while navigating the complex terrain of censorship, legal constraints, and risk-averse publishing practices. His candid remarks shed light on the tension between artistic freedom and the constraints imposed by legal and commercial considerations, underscoring the ongoing struggle for unfiltered and unapologetic artistic expression in a world where censorship and risk aversion often overshadow creative boldness.