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Art Quote by William Faulkner

“An artist is a creature driven by demons. He doesn’t know why they choose him and he’s usually too busy to wonder why. He is completely amoral in that he will rob, borrow, beg, or steal from anybody and everybody to get the work done.” quote by William Faulkner
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““An artist is a creature driven by demons. He doesn’t know why they choose him and he’s usually too busy to wonder why. He is completely amoral in that he will rob, borrow, beg, or steal from anybody and everybody to get the work done.””

William Faulkner

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Paris Review, 1955

Artists are driven by inner turmoil, often disregarding morality to achieve their vision.

In simple terms: Artists are driven by inner demons.

Key Takeaway

A and creative drive while respecting ethics.

Themes

art madness morality

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • visual arts
  • music production

Key Concepts

creative obsession ethical boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is suffering necessary for great art?
  • Where should ethical lines be drawn?
A Different Perspective

Romanticizing “madness” can excuse harmful behavior.

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