Langston Hughes: 'An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose.'

An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose.

In his profound words, Langston Hughes sheds light on the essence of being an artist with the quote, 'An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose.' At its core, this quote signifies the necessity for artists to have the liberty to pursue their creative passions and explore various avenues of expression. Yet, it also emphasizes the significance of overcoming self-doubts and refusing to be limited by fear of the unknown.Artists, regardless of their medium, thrive on the ability to make choices that resonate with their inner voice. They possess a unique perspective of the world, and by embracing this, they are able to create works that evoke emotions in others and challenge societal norms. To be an artist means to exercise the freedom to curate one's own path, selecting projects and endeavors that align with personal values and artistic vision. This freedom is essential for the artist to fully embrace their creative potential and showcase their authentic self to the world.However, Hughes adds an additional layer to his quote by highlighting the importance of fearlessness in artistic pursuits. While freedom to choose is crucial, it can also be accompanied by apprehension and uncertainly. Stepping into uncharted territory requires a level of courage and resilience. Artists must possess the audacity to venture beyond their comfort zones, exploring ideas and mediums that may not conform to societal expectations or traditional norms.This notion of fearlessness ties in with the broader philosophical concept of existentialism. According to this philosophical school of thought, individuals are responsible for creating meaning in their lives and must face the inherent uncertainties and anxieties that arise from freedom of choice. In the realm of art, this concept provides a philosophical lens through which we can further appreciate Hughes' quote.Existentialism encourages us to embrace the unknown and challenges the notion of limiting our choices out of fear. It urges artists to confront their inner doubts and take risks, even when the outcome is uncertain. By doing so, artists can break free from the shackles of conformity, push the boundaries of their creativity, and truly discover the extent of their abilities.Interestingly, this philosophy of fearlessness and choice applies not only to artists but also to individuals in various aspects of life. Just as artists must confront their own limitations, we too must overcome our fears and limitations to make choices that align with our passions and values. Hughes' quote resonates universally, reminding us to never be afraid to challenge ourselves and explore uncharted territories.In conclusion, Langston Hughes' quote encapsulates the essence of being an artist. It emphasizes the importance of freedom to choose and the need to overcome fears that may hinder artistic growth. By aligning his words with the principles of existentialism, an unexpected philosophical concept, we gain a deeper understanding of the quote's significance. Ultimately, this quote serves as a guiding light for artists and individuals alike, illustrating the transformative power of embracing freedom, overcoming fears, and fearlessly making choices.