Collector Quote by Neil Young
““My archive project is a multiedged sword. It is something I love doing, but it raises some questions about my motives in doing it. A writer accused me of building my archives just to further my own legend, whatever that is. I hope you don't believe that. What a shallow existence that would be! I remember reading that article saying that about me. It pissed me off. It's my life, and I am a collector. I collect everything: cars, trains, manuscripts, photographs, tape recordings, records, memories and clothes, to name a few. The fact that I want to create a chronological history of my recordings and supporting work is proof positive that I am an incurable collector, confronted with an amazingly detailed array of creations that I have painstakingly rat-holed over the years.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Rolling Stone, 1995
The speaker sees archiving as both a passion and a potential source of ego, questioning whether the motive is self‑promotion or genuine preservation.
In simple terms: Archiving can be love and pride ego‑driven.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on why you collect.
Themes
collection
identity
motivation
legacy
self‑reflection
Mood
introspective
defensive
reflective
Type
personal
philosophical
confessional
When to use this quote
- personal projects
- historical research
- memory preservation
- creative work
Key Concepts
archival practice
ego
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you archive to remember or to be remembered?
- How does self‑image shape what you keep?
A Different Perspective
The desire for legacy may bias what is preserved.
