Kevin Recommends
Show Your Work by austinkleon
You probably won’t find a bookseller that turns up a more fervent grimace at self-help books than me. Most of them are filled with fluff and feel-goodness that defies the reality of creative life or life in general, but Austin Kleon’s newest book offers some very sound advice to anyone with a creative drive on how to navigate their craft, passion, hobby, or art (not with a capital A…don’t get a big head yet). Beyond the subtitle’s boast of getting “discovered,” Kleon gives practical and inspiring advice on how to navigate the world of creating anything and the value of sharing what you do. Among the advice inside, the one that resonates with me the most is “Think Process, Not Product.” It’s a short and obvious chapter on something that many people overlook. Creating anything isn’t necessarily about finishing the next great novel, painting, or hit song, but about the steps it takes to get there and taking a pleasure in the struggle, rather than basking in the glory of adoration. Beyond practical advice on the creative process, Austin also examines the value of the internet as a tool to share… and what is worth sharing… which is something many of us tend to struggle with. (Guilty!) Selfies, cats, dogs, critiques, and complaints? No! Show your work, inspiration and process and you just might find others who share your passions. Turn down that nose, check out Austin’s advice and get back to work so you actually have something to show!
Like a distilled and quick take on Lewis Hyde’s essential The Gift, Kleon cares about the process of creativity, both serious and silly, and the value it contributes to our culture.
Wow, thanks Kevin! The book is out tomorrow everywhere.
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