Meaning:
This quote by Erica Jong, the renowned American novelist, offers an insightful perspective on the role of artists and their connection to the earth. The comparison of artists to housewives, as tenders of the earth household, suggests a deep and nurturing relationship between the creative process and the natural world. It implies that artists, like housewives, are caretakers of a sacred space, tending to the needs of their craft and nurturing their creative vision much like a housewife tends to the needs of a home.
In exploring this quote further, it's important to consider the concept of the "earth household." This term encompasses not only the physical environment but also the emotional and spiritual connections to the natural world. By likening artists to tenders of the earth household, Jong emphasizes the idea that creative expression is deeply intertwined with the natural world and that artists have a responsibility to care for and nurture this connection.
The comparison of artists to housewives may initially seem surprising, given the traditional gender roles associated with these two groups. However, Jong's use of this analogy serves to challenge and subvert these traditional roles, suggesting that the work of artists is just as essential and nurturing as that of a housewife. In doing so, she highlights the often underappreciated and undervalued nature of both artistic and domestic labor.
Furthermore, Jong's choice of the word "tenders" is significant. It conveys a sense of gentle care and attentiveness, implying that artists are not only creators but also caretakers of their craft and the natural world from which they draw inspiration. This aligns with the idea that artists have a responsibility to steward the earth and its resources, using their creativity to bring attention to environmental issues and advocate for the protection of the earth household.
From a broader perspective, this quote also speaks to the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of recognizing our relationship to the earth. It suggests that artists, through their work, have the ability to foster a deeper understanding of our connection to the natural world and to inspire others to appreciate and protect it. In this sense, artists can be seen as stewards of the earth household, using their creative talents to raise awareness and provoke change.
In conclusion, Erica Jong's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of artists as tenders of the earth household. By likening artists to housewives, she challenges traditional notions of labor and emphasizes the nurturing and caretaking aspects of creative work. Furthermore, this quote underscores the vital connection between artistic expression and the natural world, highlighting the potential for artists to advocate for environmental stewardship through their creative endeavors. Overall, Jong's words serve as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and the responsibility we have to care for the earth and its resources.