Ernest Hemingway: 'That terrible mood of depression of whether it's any good or not is what is known as The Artist's Reward.'

That terrible mood of depression of whether it's any good or not is what is known as The Artist's Reward.

Ernest Hemingway, one of the most influential American writers of the 20th century, once said, "That terrible mood of depression of whether it's any good or not is what is known as The Artist's Reward." Hemingway's quote encapsulates the complex emotions that artists often experience when evaluating their own work. It speaks to the relentless pursuit of perfection and the inevitable self-doubt that accompany the creative process. This quote holds significant meaning as it sheds light on the paradoxical nature of artistry — the subjective nature of judging creative work and the emotional toll it takes on the artist.The essence of Hemingway's quote lies in the recognition of that "terrible mood of depression," which artists, be it writers, painters, musicians, or any other form of creative expression, often grapple with. This mood is the nagging feeling that can plague their minds, questioning the quality and worth of their creations. Paradoxically, Hemingway refers to this mood as "The Artist's Reward." How can something that brings about depression be rewarded? It is in this juxtaposition of emotions that an unexpected philosophical concept comes into play - the concept of Stoicism.Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that advocates for the mastery of one's emotions, focusing on differentiating between what we can control and what we cannot. Ancient Stoics believed that by acknowledging and embracing the inevitability of suffering, one could find tranquility and inner peace. Applying this concept to Hemingway's quote, we can see a parallel in the way artists perceive their own work.The artist's reward, though seemingly negative, can be reframed as a testament to their dedication and commitment to their craft. Artists who experience this mood of self-doubt are unwilling to settle for mediocrity. It is this very discomfort that fuels their relentless pursuit of improvement, thereby elevating their work to new heights. They understand the subjective nature of artistic evaluation and realize that external validation may never fully satisfy their own standards. Instead, they seek their own approval, thus embracing the Stoic principle of focusing on what one can control.The artist's reward can also be seen as an inherent part of the creative process. Like any other endeavor, the path to mastery is riddled with peaks and valleys, moments of elation and despair. Artists must endure these emotional fluctuations and learn to derive value from the transformative power of their work. It is in this transformative process that true growth occurs, shaping artists into better versions of themselves and allowing them to weave their unique perspectives into their creations.Moreover, the artist's reward aligns with the notion that creativity is an inherently human undertaking. It is the vulnerability in exposing one's inner thoughts, feelings, and imagination to the world that makes art profound. The very act of creation requires immense courage, as artists willingly subject themselves to critique, judgment, and the perpetual questioning of whether their work has any significance. Yet, it is precisely through this vulnerability that artists can forge deep connections with their audience, resonating on a fundamental and emotional level.In conclusion, Ernest Hemingway's quote, "That terrible mood of depression of whether it's any good or not is what is known as The Artist's Reward," beautifully encapsulates the complex emotional landscape that artists navigate. Through a Stoic lens, we can reinterpret this quote as a testament to the unwavering dedication and uncompromising pursuit of greatness. The artist's reward, derived from self-doubt and the conundrum of artistic evaluation, is a catalyst for growth and transformation. Ultimately, it is in the vulnerability and resilience of the artist that the true beauty of their work is revealed.