"The primary distinction of the artist is that he must actively cultivate that state which most men, necessarily, must avoid; the state of being alone"

This quote by James Baldwin talks to the unique experience of the artist. It recommends that the main difference of the artist is that they must actively cultivate a state of being alone, which is something that the majority of people need to prevent. This state of being alone is required for the artist to produce their work, as it enables them to focus on their craft and to explore their own thoughts and feelings. Being alone also enables the artist to be more open to inspiration and to be more creative. It is a mindset that is important for the artist to be able to develop meaningful and powerful artworks. The quote also implies that the artist must be willing to take threats and to be vulnerable in order to create something truly unique and unique. It is a pointer that the artist should be willing to go versus the grain and to be brave enough to explore their own inner world in order to produce something meaningful.