Maynard James Keenan: 'Once you take yourself too seriously the art will suffer.'

Once you take yourself too seriously the art will suffer.

Once you take yourself too seriously, the art will suffer. Maynard James Keenan, the enigmatic frontman of Tool and A Perfect Circle, encapsulated this profound concept in a simple statement that holds true not only in the realm of music but also in various aspects of life. This quote serves as a reminder to artists and individuals alike that when one becomes overly self-absorbed or overly concerned with their own ego, they risk losing touch with the true essence of their art and its ability to connect and resonate with others. The importance of this quote lies in its ability to challenge us to step back, reassess our motivations, and regain a sense of humility and authenticity.Artistic expression, in any form, is rooted in personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives. It is through this lens that artists paint, write, compose, or perform, sharing a piece of their inner world with the audience. When an artist succumbs to the trap of taking themselves too seriously, envisioning themselves as the epicenter of their creation, they lose sight of the true purpose that art serves - to evoke emotions, inspire, and foster connection.In a world where self-promotion and personal branding often overshadow the pursuit of genuine artistry, Maynard's words act as an antidote to this toxic mentality. By humbly acknowledging that the art itself is greater than the artist, one opens themselves up to the possibility of growth, collaboration, and exploration. When an artist surrenders their ego, they create space for vulnerability, experimentation, and even serendipity, allowing their work to reach new heights and resonate with a broader audience.But what lies beyond the notion of taking oneself too seriously in the realm of art? Focusing solely on this concept may unintentionally overextend its application exclusively within an artistic context, marginalizing its relevance to our own lives. Let us delve deeper into the philosophical aspect and expand the implications of this quote to encompass a broader perspective.In the philosophy of mindfulness, there exists the concept of non-self or anatta. It is the belief that our sense of self is not an inherent, fixed identity but rather a construct that constantly evolves through our experiences, relationships, and interactions with the world. Non-self challenges the very foundation of what it means to take oneself too seriously, as it questions the existence of a permanent self to be taken seriously in the first place.When we become fixated on our own self-image, on protecting and asserting our ego, we lose touch with the interconnectedness that exists among all beings and the world at large. We become entangled in a web of self-consciousness, unable to truly connect authentically with others or acknowledge the shared human experience. By recognizing the impermanence of self and embracing the philosophy of non-self, we free ourselves from the shackles of self-importance and open up the possibility for growth, compassion, and collective well-being.In essence, Maynard James Keenan's quote serves as a timely reminder to both artists and individuals that taking oneself too seriously hampers the very essence of art and stifles personal growth. By acknowledging the importance of humility, vulnerability, and interconnectedness, we can break free from the burden of an overly inflated self-identity and create art that not only resonates with others but also contributes to the greater good of humanity. Embracing the philosophy of non-self allows us to let go of our ego-driven desires and tap into a deeper, universal wellspring of creativity, authenticity, and compassion. So let us heed Keenan's words, transcend the boundaries of self-importance, and allow art to flourish in all its transformative power.