Katagiri Roshi says: "Poor artists. They suffer very much…
“Katagiri Roshi says: "Poor artists. They suffer very much. They finish a masterpiece and they are not satisfied. They want to go on and do another." Yes, but it's better to go on and do another if you have the urge than to start drinking and become alcoholic or eat a pound of good fudge and get fat.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Artists often feel dissatisfaction after completing a work, prompting a cycle of continual creation versus self‑destructive habits.
In simple terms: Artists may feel unsatisfied after finishing, leading to either more art or harmful coping.
Key Takeaway
Channel dissatisfaction into new creative projects.
Themes
creativity
self‑discipline
addiction
fulfillment
Mood
reflective
motivational
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- studio practice
- personal crises
- stress relief
- health management
Key Concepts
artistic drive
coping mechanisms
habit formation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when dissatisfaction fuels growth versus self‑destruction?
- What healthy outlets replace harmful habits?
A Different Perspective
Creative drive can become compulsive without balance.