Ends Quote by John Cage
“One day when I was studying with Schoenberg, he pointed out the eraser on his pencil and said, 'This end is more important than the other.' After twenty years I learned to write directly in ink.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 1970s, conversation with Schoenberg
The anecdote illustrates the shift from valuing the preparatory stage (eraser) to embracing finality (ink), highlighting the importance of decisive action in creative work.
In simple terms: It teaches that the final act can be more crucial than preparation.
Key Takeaway
Embrace decisive creation over endless revision.
Themes
creativity
decision
process
finality
Mood
thoughtful
instructive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing
- painting
- design
- performance
- project execution
Key Concepts
artistic philosophy
risk-taking
imperfection
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the “end” represent in your work?
- How do you balance preparation and execution?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on finality can neglect necessary preparation.
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