Book Author: Mason Currey
Book Published: April 23, 2013
Are Your Daily Rituals Routine or Deadline Driven?
Is your creativity driven by a looming deadline? Do you need four or five cups of Diet Pepsi or tea before you can even think of putting one word on the paper? Does the rest of the world need to be sleeping for you to hit your stride? Do you sometimes type the title of an article on the page just to see words on the page? Okay, well maybe I’m the only one that does those things. If not, join the ranks of many creatives that have rituals or behaviors that get their creative muscles warmed up and ready for the battle of the blank sheet or canvas.
As a creative who grew up with other creatives, Daily Rituals piqued my interest and would hopefully feed my curious nature. Maybe this middle of the night creative could pick up a few tricks of the trade from some of the most successful artists in the world. Perhaps I could gain a little insight into how they became so successful and in some cases are still going strong. If nothing else, it would be fun to peek behind the curtain.
Variety of Stories, Rituals, and Routines
Daily Rituals is packed with the stories, habits, routines and outright superstitions of some of the best of the best artists and minds. Some rituals border on irrational, while others so mundane in nature, it’s hard to believe they were considered the magic potion. Obviously, it goes without saying, ritual or not, the success lies in the inherent talent of the particular artist, not the routine.
Imagine starting your day by dressing in a suit, riding the elevator down with other businessmen only to get off the elevator in the basement of your apartment building and stripping to boxers before sitting down at your typewriter. Well, that was one of John Cheever’s tried and true rituals leading to his success. I was astounded by Agatha Christie’s admission, one of the greatest authors ever, that she never truly considered herself an author even after ten successful books!
The artist’s stories featured in the book are plentiful and I found all of them interesting and inspiring. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the often bizarre routines of some of the most talented artists in history. I will admit, it took me longer than usual to read through the book. I found myself stopping to look up additional information on some of the artists I had never heard of or whose story intrigued me enough to want to learn more.
Would I Recommend This Book?
I would recommend this book to anyone struggling to find a routine that works for them, or anyone interested in a glimpse at the habits and routines of some of the greatest talents in history.
As for me, it’s after midnight and I am just warming up and getting my creative buzz on while the rest of my time zone is likely fast asleep. So, goodnight to you and mush on to me…
