Creative Alchemy

I usually focus these newsletters on topics within my knowledge and experience.

But today, I feel it’s essential to acknowledge a subject that I’m just beginning to understand. The conflict between Israel & Palestine is both horrifying and heartbreaking.

Thousands of innocent lives have been lost and the situation seems to only be escalating, as decades of unresolved traumas come to a head.

While I can only imagine the pain experienced by those involved, the past few weeks have been a balancing act for me - trying to educate myself on this complex matter, while also not damaging my mental health with distressing headlines & graphic images.

If you’re feeling scared, tense, or uneasy, you’re not alone. The world is with you.

It’s important to recognize that our thoughts often shape our external experiences, and dwelling on problems rarely leads us to solutions. However, this doesn’t mean we can turn a blind eye to the atrocities unfolding in the world.

I’m praying for peace and deeply believe that violence is never the answer.

If you’re interested in gaining a more comprehensive understanding, former President Barack Obama provided a statement that illuminates the nuances of the issue quite well.

There are also a few poems, linked below, that demonstrate the power of artists to create beauty out of sadness.

This idea of creative alchemy is the topic of today’s newsletter.

Creativity as an Antidote

I’ve come to believe that creativity is one of the most healing things we can do during difficult times. It can create alchemy - the process of transforming even the darkest emotions into beauty.

Throughout history, artists & musicians have turned their personal struggles and tragedies into works of art that resonate across the world.

Consider Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven,” a tribute to his son’s tragic passing, or Bon Iver’s debut album, “For Emma, Forever Ago,” written in a remote cabin following heartbreak and illness.

In these instances, and many more, creativity has acted as a source of solace.

In previous newsletters, we have explored the nature of creativity, its origins, and how we can nurture it within ourselves.

Today, however, we’ll be diving into Rick Rubin’s book “The Creative Act: A Way of Being.”

It’s the most beautiful book I’ve ever encountered.

Of all the writers in the world right now, Rick Rubin stands out to me as one of the most admirable.

His writing is selfless, succinct, and demonstrates a commitment to conveying truth in its most universal form. These are all attributes I aspire to create from.

Throughout his career, he’s worked with the biggest names in music, and is often credited with resurrecting Johnny’s Cash’s musical career.

The man knows a thing or two about creative alchemy.

Here are some of my favorite passages & ideas from “The Creative Act.”

13 of Rick Rubin’s Ideas on Creativity:

• As artists, we seek to restore our childlike perception: a more innocent state of wonder and appreciation not tethered to utility or survival.

• To live as an artist is a way of being in the world.

• The work reveals itself as you go.

• The need for patience is ever-present.

• Listening without prejudice is how we grow and learn as people.

• Look for what you notice, but no one else sees.

• Taking a wrong turn allows you to see landscapes you wouldn’t otherwise have seen.

• Base decisions on the internal feeling of being moved and notice what holds your interest. This will always be in the greatest service of the work.

• It is through communing with nature that we move closer to our own nature.

• Art is a reflection of the artist’s inner and outer world during the period of creation.

• The goal of art isn’t to attain perfection. The goal is to share who we are. And how we see the world.

• Take art seriously without going about it in a serious way.

Art creates a profound connection

between the artist and the audience

Through that connection,

both can heal.

Each of you reading likely has a favorite way to express your creativity.

Whether it’s through music, painting, writing, or any other form, remember that your creative outlet is a powerful tool during challenging times.

For me, playing music and writing are two of the most effective practices for getting out of my head and into the present moment.

It could be the same for you.

Thank you for reading. I hope you found these ideas useful.

If you could, please consider sharing this with a friend.

In today’s world, we need both connection and the act of creation more than ever.

Until next time.

Be well,

Aidan