Art Quote by David Geffen
“Most of the artists were trying to make a living, trying to get laid, trying to figure out who they were. They weren't trying to change the world. That's what other people put on them. I knew all those people. I knew them all, intimately and well. Bob Dylan. I would say that Bob Dylan is as interested in money as any person I've known in my life. That's just the truth.”
About This Quote
The speaker observes that many artists are driven by personal survival and self-discovery rather than grand ambitions, and that external narratives often misrepresent their motives.
In simple terms: Artists pursue personal goals, not world-changing agendas.
Key Takeaway
Artistic intent is often mischaracterized.
Themes
Identity
Motivation
Perception
Authenticity
Societal expectations
Mood
Reflective
Cynical
Nostalgic
Type
Anecdotal
Observational
Critical
When to use this quote
- Interview with a music industry veteran
- Panel on artist narratives
- Documentary on 60s folk scene
- Podcast about fame and authenticity
Key Concepts
Self-actualization
Economic necessity
Cultural mythmaking
Personal relationships
Practical Applications
- Reevaluating artist biographies
- Designing media literacy curricula
Questions to Reflect On
- How does public myth shape an artist's self‑image?
- What pressures push creators toward authenticity versus commercial success?
A Different Perspective
Some artists deliberately aim to influence society, so not all are solely self‑focused.
