The War of Art | Steven Pressfield | A Review
The War of Art Steven Pressfield A Review
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield-A Review
“The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield is a powerful and compelling manifesto that delves into the internal struggles faced by artists, writers, and creatives of all kinds. Published in 2002, the book has become a go-to resource for overcoming creative resistance and unlocking one’s full creative potential.
One of the book’s main strengths lies in Pressfield’s candid and unapologetic portrayal of resistance – the invisible force that stands between us and our creative aspirations. He writes, “Resistance is the most toxic force on the planet. It is the root of more unhappiness than poverty, disease, and erectile dysfunction.”
Throughout “The War of Art,” Pressfield explores the nature of resistance and its various manifestations, from procrastination to self-doubt. He compellingly describes resistance as a formidable opponent that seeks to keep us in our comfort zones and prevent us from expressing our true selves creatively.
Another key aspect of the book is Pressfield’s emphasis on the professional mindset. He argues that treating creativity as a profession, rather than a hobby, is the key to overcoming resistance and producing meaningful work. He writes, “The professional has learned that success, like happiness, comes as a by-product of work. The professional concentrates on the work and allows rewards to come or not come, whatever they like.”
“The War of Art” also delves into the concept of the Muse and the role of inspiration in the creative process. Pressfield encourages readers to show up consistently and do the work, relying on discipline and dedication rather than waiting for inspiration to strike.
One of the book’s most significant contributions is its emphasis on the importance of starting and persevering in the face of adversity. Pressfield advises, “Start before you’re ready… There is magic in action.”
Furthermore, the book addresses the importance of recognizing and embracing our calling. Pressfield urges readers to listen to their inner voices and pursue their creative passions wholeheartedly. He writes, “If you find yourself asking yourself (and your friends), ‘Am I really a writer? Am I really an artist?’ chances are you are. The counterfeit innovator is wildly self-confident. The real one is scared to death.”
Critics of the book argue that some concepts may seem repetitive or that the book’s style, written in short, punchy segments, may not resonate with all readers.
In conclusion, “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield is a profound and motivating exploration of creative resistance and the pursuit of artistic endeavors. The book’s candid insights, practical advice, and motivational quotations make it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to overcome obstacles and unleash their creative potential. Through its compelling depiction of the battle against resistance and the call to embrace one’s true creative calling, “The War of Art” remains a timeless and essential read for artists, writers, and creators of all kinds. 0 0 0.
The War of Art Steven Pressfield A Review
N.B. The article ‘The War of Art Steven Pressfield A Review’ originally belongs to the book ‘Reviews of Selected Motivational Books‘ by Menonim Menonimus.
Books of Literary Criticism by M. Menonimus:
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- World Poetry Criticism
- World Drama Criticism
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- Indian English Poetry Criticism
- Indian English Poets and Poetry Chief Features
- Emily Dickinson’s Poetry-A Thematic Study
- Walt Whitman’s Poetry-A Thematic Study
- Critical Essays on English Poetry
- Tawfiq al-Hakim’s Novel: Return of the Spirit-An Analytical Study
- Tawfiq al-Hakim’s Novel: ‘Yawmiyyat Naib Fil Arayaf’-An Analytical Study
- Analytical Studies of Some Arabic Short Stories
- A Brief History of Arabic Literature: Pre-Islamic Period (500 AD-622 AD)
- A Brief History of Arabic Literature: Early Islamic Period (622 AD-661 AD)
- Reviews on William Shakespeare’s Works
- Reviews of Charles Dickens’ Works
- Reviews of John Milton’s Literary Works
- Reviews of Some Iconic Travelogues
- Shakespeare’s Sonnets-Critical Studies
- Analytical Studies of Selected Poems of Sarojini Naidu
- Analytical Studies of Selected Poems of Rabindranath Tagore
- Analytical Studies of Selected Indian English Poems
- Reviews of Selected Motivational Books …
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