Meaning: This quote by musician Leo Kottke touches upon the transient nature of creativity and the constant influx of new material. Kottke, known for his innovative fingerpicking style on the guitar, reflects on the challenge of retaining the wealth of musical ideas that come to him. The quote suggests that Kottke is constantly discovering new musical material, only to find himself forgetting it as new ideas continue to flow in. This cycle of discovery and forgetfulness prevents him from building a larger repository of musical creations, which Kottke refers to as a "shame."

Kottke's statement resonates with many creative individuals who grapple with the fleeting nature of inspiration. The creative process often involves a continuous stream of ideas, some of which may be fleeting and easily forgotten if not captured or developed upon. The sentiment expressed in the quote highlights the bittersweet reality of being a prolific creator—constantly generating new material but struggling to preserve and expand upon it.

The phrase "I seem to find different material every four to six months" suggests that Kottke experiences regular cycles of creative inspiration. This pattern may be indicative of the ebb and flow of creativity that many artists experience. The interval of four to six months implies that Kottke undergoes distinct phases of creative productivity, during which he encounters and engages with new musical material.

The line "I frequently forget it" reveals the downside of this creative cycle. Despite the regular influx of new material, Kottke laments the fact that he often fails to retain or fully develop these ideas. This forgetfulness may stem from the overwhelming volume of new material or the rapid pace at which new ideas emerge. It also speaks to the challenge of managing and organizing creative thoughts, especially when they come in abundance.

Kottke's desire to have a "bigger library" speaks to his aspiration to accumulate and preserve the wealth of musical material he encounters. A "bigger library" symbolizes a more extensive collection of ideas, compositions, and musical concepts. It represents a repository of creativity from which an artist can draw inspiration, develop new works, and reflect on past accomplishments. Kottke's yearning for a larger library reflects his recognition of the value of preserving and building upon his creative output.

In a broader context, Kottke's quote sheds light on the evolving nature of artistic expression and the challenges of creative stewardship. The quote captures the essence of a creative journey marked by constant discovery, forgetfulness, and the quest for artistic abundance. It also underscores the importance of finding effective methods for capturing, organizing, and revisiting creative ideas to build a substantial body of work.

In conclusion, Leo Kottke's quote encapsulates the cyclical nature of creativity and the struggle to retain and expand upon a continuous influx of new material. It offers a glimpse into the complexities of the creative process and the tension between the ephemeral nature of inspiration and the desire to build a lasting artistic legacy. Kottke's words serve as a poignant reflection on the challenges and aspirations that many artists encounter as they navigate the ever-changing landscape of creative expression.