"I still like to keep tapes of the few minutes before the final take, things that happen before the session. Maybe it's superstitious, but I believe if I had done things differently - if I had walked around the studio or gone out - it wouldn't have turned out that way"

In this quote, Ray Davies, a popular artist and songwriter, shares a glimpse into his innovative process and the subtle, nearly mystical components he believes impact artistic outcomes. The idea of preserving tapes from minutes leading up to a final take underscores the significance he places on the non-tangible aspects of music creation. It suggests that Davies sees value in the spontaneous, unexpected exchanges and the ambient environment that surrounds these minutes. These may consist of idle chatter, casual tuning, or random serendipitous noises that fill the area before a polished performance or recording.

He refers to this practice as perhaps "superstitious", highlighting an awareness of the illogical yet engaging belief in the unseen forces that shape imaginative production. This acknowledgment of superstition suggests a regard for the intangible essence of creativity, where not all outcomes can be attributed to technical skill or conscious decision-making. It talks to an understanding that the magic of music often lies in catching a fleeting minute of emotional resonance that can't constantly be willingly reproduced.

By discussing a modification of actions-- such as "if I had walked around the studio or gone out"-- Davies suggests that even subtle changes in his routine could modify the creative result. This highlights the value of presence and intention within the imaginative process; each minute is unique and unrepeatable, affecting the end product in unexpected methods. It also exposes the vulnerability intrinsic in artistry: acknowledging that each piece of work is a synthesis of numerous variables beyond the creator's complete control.

For that reason, the quote stresses a reverence for the holistic nature of creative production. It suggests that Davies values the totality of the creative environment, recognizing the ephemeral alchemy that can add to exceptional artistry.