"I guess I've always liked the idea of being an artist"

In the quote, "I guess I've constantly liked the concept of being an artist", by Larry Rivers, there is a complicated interplay in between aspiration, self-reflection, and an acknowledgment of the inherent appeal associated with the creative identity.

To analyze this statement, one must consider the phrase "I guess", which introduces a tone of uncertainty or casual self-questioning. This suggests that Rivers, intentionally or not, may be distancing himself slightly from the certainty of his declaration, including a layer of humility or even self-doubt. It suggests a journey, maybe unfinished, of self-discovery, where his affinity for the artistic way of life has actually been a constant, albeit reflective, undercurrent in his life.

The word "always" signifies an enduring connection to the concept of being an artist, showing that this is not a transient or superficial notion. It suggests that this inclination has been with him from an early age, a thread woven through numerous stages of his life, continuing in spite of changes and obstacles he might have dealt with. This all time highlights an essential aspect of his identity, revealing a much deeper connection that transcends simple disposition, meaning a calling or an ingrained passion.

The phrase "the idea of being an artist" is particularly telling. It speaks more to the conceptual and romantic allure of artistry instead of the tangible practice of art-making. Rivers is expressing an appreciation for the lifestyle, flexibility, and possibly the understanding of artists in society as creative radicals, instead of focusing solely on the technical mastery or raw execution of art itself. This difference implies a recognition of the symbolic function and principles an artist embodies-- one of imagination, free expression, and boundary-pushing.

Overall, Rivers' declaration communicates a respect and longing for the intangible aspects of being an artist, underscoring a recurring internal dialogue about what it suggests to inhabit this revered yet enigmatic role in society.