The power of both myth and art is this magical ability to open doors, to make connections - not only between us and the natural world, but between us and the rest of humanity. Myths show us what we have in common with every other human being, no matter what culture we come from, no matter what century we live in. . .and at the same time, mythic stories and art celebrate our essential differences.
Interpretation
Myth and art connect humanity by highlighting both our shared experiences and our unique differences.
Alan Lee's quote suggests that myths and art hold a unique power to bridge gaps between individuals and cultures. They facilitate understanding and connection among people, illustrating the universal experiences of humanity while also celebrating the diverse qualities that make each culture distinct. This duality enriches our connections to both the natural world and each other, fostering a deeper appreciation of our shared existence.
In practice
This quote can inspire a speech at an art exhibition focusing on cultural diversity.
To draw a tree, to pay such close attention to every aspect of a tree, is an act of reverence not only toward the tree, and toward the earth itself, but also our human connection to it. This is one of the magical things about drawing - it gives us almost visionary moments of connectedness.
Painting is another form of thinking.
I've attended many concerts where I felt let down and I was wishing it would be something else. Not that it's their duty to please me, but at the same time, I think a lot about what it's like through the eyes of the consumer, the fan. I want not to pander to the audience, but to be aware of them.
I would like to be Maria, but there is La Callas who demands that I carry myself with her dignity.
I use poetry to help me work through what I don’t understand, but I show up to each new poem with a backpack full of everywhere else that I’ve been.
No matter how many times you do it, you don't get used to the sadness - for me at least - of coming to the end of a film.
Marilyn always dreamt of being an actress. She didn't, by the way, dream of being just a star. She dreamt of being an actress. And she had always lived somehow with that dream. And that is why, despite the fact that she became one of the most unusual and outstanding stars of all time, she herself was never satisfied. When she came to New York, she began to perceive the possibilities of really accomplishing her dream, of being an actress.
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