Chapter 4, Fears About Others Summary and Analysis

Art is usually made alone, but the reactions of other people still matter. Whether or not they should create problems for the artist, they do. Sometimes we imagine critics surrounding us, become paralyzed by positive distaste, or follow the priorities of others. Artists only care about impressing others when they feel uncertain or insecure. One should seek constructive criticism, but remember that one's art is one's own.

Artists often look for understanding. This affirms one's humanity, but it imposes a risk because it gives power over you; they have the power to hurt you. The artist should place time between finishing the art and showing it to others, so she can make her own judgment about the piece. Further, do not worry about being misunderstood because bending to the understanding of the many produces bad...