Meaning: This quote by David Friedman, an American actor, speaks to the intimate and personal nature of creative expression and the struggle to balance artistic pursuits with practical considerations. In this quote, Friedman reflects on his early experiences as a writer and the internal conflict he faced regarding the pursuit of his passion for writing while also needing to make a living.

Friedman's revelation that he had been writing since the age of 20, but initially kept his writing a secret and never shared it with anyone, sheds light on the vulnerability and hesitancy that many aspiring artists encounter. The fear of judgment and the pressure to conform to societal expectations can often lead individuals to keep their creative endeavors hidden, especially when grappling with the uncertainty of pursuing a career in the arts.

The mention of being "very concerned about making a living" underscores the practical realities that artists often contend with. The inherent instability and unpredictability of a career in the arts can pose significant challenges, leading individuals to seek more stable and conventional paths to financial security. In Friedman's case, this concern for making a living led him to pursue a career in conducting, a more traditional and potentially lucrative profession.

The juxtaposition of writing in secret while also pursuing a career in conducting highlights the internal conflict that many artists face. The struggle to reconcile the desire for creative fulfillment with the need for financial stability is a recurring theme in the lives of many individuals involved in artistic pursuits. Friedman's experience serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and compromises that artists often make in order to sustain themselves while nurturing their creative aspirations.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the deeply personal and introspective nature of creative expression. For many artists, writing serves as a form of self-discovery and self-expression, providing a means to explore and articulate their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The act of writing in secret reflects the private and intimate relationship that individuals often have with their creative endeavors, as they grapple with their own insecurities and doubts before sharing their work with the world.

Ultimately, Friedman's quote offers a glimpse into the inner turmoil and the delicate balance that artists navigate as they pursue their creative passions while also tending to the practicalities of life. It encapsulates the universal struggle of aspiring artists to find their voice, overcome self-doubt, and carve out a space for their creative expression in a world that often prioritizes financial stability over artistic fulfillment.

In conclusion, David Friedman's quote serves as a poignant reflection on the personal journey of an artist, shedding light on the internal conflicts, vulnerabilities, and aspirations that shape the creative process. It offers a compelling insight into the intersection of artistic expression and the pragmatic realities of life, resonating with aspiring artists and individuals who grapple with similar challenges in their pursuit of creative fulfillment.