Julie’s Reviews > Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear > Status Update

Rereading for a new book club

"We must understand that the drive for perfectionism is a corrosive waste of time, because nothing is ever beyond criticism. No matter how many hours you spend attempting to render something flawless, somebody will always be able to find fault with it. At some point, you really just have to finish your work and release it as is—if only so that you can go on to make other things with a glad and determined heart."

"If people enjoy what you've created, terrific. If people misunderstand what you've created, don't sweat it. And what if people absolutely hate what you've created? What if people attack you with savage vitriol, and insult your intelligence, and malign your motives, and drag your good name through the mud?

Just smiles sweetly and suggest–as politely as you possibly can—that they go make their own fucking art."

Okay, so the BFF tone is a *little* cloying, but it's hard not to feel loved by Liz!

Agree wholeheartedly with Gilbert's adoration of poe Jack Gilbert. His work is extraordinary!