Meaning: This quote by musician Fiona Apple reflects a sentiment that is not uncommon among artists and performers. It speaks to the idea of not having a reference point or a standard to measure oneself against, and the resulting uncertainty that can arise from this lack of external validation. In this case, Fiona Apple is discussing her experience of not having attended concerts as a child, which left her feeling unsure about whether her performances were "right."

Growing up without exposure to live music events, Apple did not have the opportunity to witness and absorb the stage presence, crowd interaction, and overall performance dynamics that are characteristic of concerts. As a result, she lacked a frame of reference for what constituted a "correct" or successful performance. This absence of external validation or validation from peers in her formative years likely contributed to her feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt when it came to her own stage presence and performance style.

It's important to note that this sentiment is not limited to musicians. Artists, actors, writers, and individuals in various creative fields often grapple with similar feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt, especially when they lack exposure to the work of others in their formative years. Without a clear understanding of what is considered "right" or successful in their respective fields, they may struggle to develop confidence in their own abilities and creative choices.

However, it's also worth considering the flip side of this experience. While not having attended concerts as a child may have contributed to Fiona Apple's feelings of uncertainty, it also likely played a role in shaping her unique artistic voice. Without being heavily influenced by external performances, she may have been able to develop a style and approach to music that was truly her own, free from the constraints of trying to fit into a pre-existing mold.

In a broader sense, this quote speaks to the impact of early experiences and influences on the development of an individual's creative identity. It highlights the importance of exposure to diverse forms of art and culture in shaping one's understanding of their own creative potential. For those who may not have had the opportunity to experience certain cultural or artistic events in their formative years, the journey of finding their own path and defining what is "right" becomes a more introspective and personal process.

Fiona Apple's quote also raises important questions about the nature of artistic validation. What does it mean to be "right" in the context of artistic expression? Is there a universal standard for creative success, or is it ultimately a subjective and personal journey? These questions challenge us to consider the role of external validation in the creative process and the significance of forging one's own path, even in the absence of traditional benchmarks.

Ultimately, Fiona Apple's quote serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal experience, external influences, and the development of artistic identity. It invites us to consider the ways in which our early experiences, or lack thereof, can shape our creative paths and the unique perspectives we bring to our chosen art forms.

In conclusion, Fiona Apple's reflection on her experience of not attending concerts as a child offers insight into the impact of early influences on artistic development and the complexities of seeking validation in creative endeavors. It prompts us to consider the role of external references in shaping creative identity and invites a deeper exploration of the personal journey towards defining what is "right" in the context of artistic expression.