"When I stop working the rest of the day is posthumous. I'm only really alive when I'm writing"
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Tennessee Williams' quote, "When I stop working the remainder of the day is posthumous. I'm just actually alive when I'm composing", offers profound insight into his relationship with his craft and the essential function it plays in his life. Williams, renowned for his evocative and intense plays, frequently infused his deal with a deep psychological and philosophical undertone, and this statement records the essence of his artistic soul.
Using the word "posthumous" to describe the part of the day spent not writing suggests a state of existence that is lifeless or inert. Posthumous, generally referring to something taking place after death, indicates that durations when Williams isn't writing seem lacking the vigor and immediacy fundamental in living. For that reason, for Williams, composing is not simply a profession or an innovative outlet but a lifeline, a method to connect exceptionally with the world and with himself. This point of view underscores the theme that real living-- being completely present and engaged-- happens through the act of creation.
Additionally, by asserting that he is "only truly alive when [he's] writing", Williams emphasizes the transformative power of the imaginative process. Writing, here, becomes a conduit for self-expression and exploration, allowing him to explore the intricacies of human emotion and experience. It provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment that other activities, perhaps more mundane or regular, can not offer.
This sentiment resonates with the concept that imaginative individuals typically find their truest selves while immersed in their art, where their imaginations and inner guides have the freedom to unfold. Williams' statement likewise highlights an universal truth for lots of artists: the struggle to balance the needs of daily life with the often-compelling desire to create.
In conclusion, Tennessee Williams' quote reflects the inseparable bond between his life and his art, representing writing as the heartbeat that animates his existence. Through his words, he invites us to ponder the locations where we each find our vitality and to think about the transformative potential of our own innovative pursuits.
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