Meaning: This quote by Bill Griffith, a well-known cartoonist, provides an insight into the drug culture of the 1960s, particularly within the artistic community. The quote reflects on a time before the psychedelic movement gained momentum, indicating that drug use, specifically marijuana, was already prevalent among artists during that era.

In the early 1960s, the counterculture movement was beginning to take shape, with a growing emphasis on individual expression, experimentation, and a rejection of traditional societal norms. Artists, in particular, were at the forefront of this cultural shift, seeking new forms of expression and challenging established conventions.

Griffith's statement sheds light on the widespread use of marijuana within the artistic community during this period. It suggests that such drug use was not limited to a fringe or underground culture but was rather commonplace among artists. This is significant as it demonstrates the intersection of creativity, non-conformity, and drug use during a pivotal moment in cultural history.

Furthermore, the reference to the "acid scene" alludes to the subsequent rise of LSD and other hallucinogens, which became emblematic of the psychedelic movement that would define the later part of the 1960s. By positioning his experience before the onset of the acid scene, Griffith highlights the prelude to a major cultural shift, indicating that drug use was already prevalent within the artistic community prior to the widespread adoption of psychedelics.

Griffith's perspective as an art student at that time provides valuable firsthand insight into the prevailing attitudes and behaviors within the artistic community. His recollection offers a glimpse into the social and cultural dynamics that shaped the artistic milieu of the early 1960s, providing context for understanding the broader societal and artistic trends of the era.

It is important to acknowledge that drug use, including marijuana and psychedelics, played a significant role in shaping the artistic output of the 1960s. Many artists, musicians, and writers drew inspiration from altered states of consciousness, using drugs as a means of expanding their creative boundaries and exploring new artistic frontiers.

However, it is also essential to recognize the complexities and consequences associated with drug use, especially within the context of artistic expression. While some individuals may have found inspiration and liberation through drug-induced experiences, others faced addiction, mental health challenges, and societal stigma.

In conclusion, Bill Griffith's quote provides a window into the drug culture of the early 1960s and its intersection with the artistic community. It offers a nuanced perspective on the prevalence of marijuana use among artists before the psychedelic movement took hold, shedding light on the cultural and social dynamics of the era. By examining Griffith's recollection, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between creativity, non-conformity, and drug use during a transformative period in history.