"Painting pictures didn't make me a lot of money. I have to eat"

In this quote, Ralph Bakshi, a prominent American animator and director, is revealing the truth of being an artist. He acknowledges that painting pictures, although an enthusiasm and talent of his, did not generate a substantial amount of earnings. This highlights the common struggle of many artists who typically have to balance their creative pursuits with the need to earn a living. Bakshi's declaration "I need to eat" emphasizes the usefulness and need of generating income to sustain oneself. It also clarifies the difficulties and sacrifices that artists frequently have to make in order to pursue their passion.