Creative Inspiration: Philip Glass

“The path to mastery is not linear. It is full of detours, dead ends, and moments of clarity that come when you least expect them” — Philip Glass

Back in January, I happened to come across a posting for a free concert celebrating the music of Philip Glass put on by the Vancouver Opera. Called “88 keys, 88 years” this specific concert coincided with Glass’ 88th birthday. His life & legacy are a true testament to what it means be on a journey of creative living.

I immediately booked tickets. To say that I am a fan of Philip Glass would be an understatement. I first read his autobiography shortly after it came out in 2015. Google describes Words Without Music as “rapturous in its ability to depict the creative process”. This book “allows readers to experience that sublime moment of creative fusion when life merges with art”.

His life & music have been inspiring me for a long time now; so for this blog post, I wanted to share with you how his autobiography, Words Without Music, might be a source of inspiration for you as well.

Words Without Music

Philip Glass’s autobiography offers an intimate glimpse into the life and mind of one of the most influential composers of our time. For anyone seeking creative inspiration, this book is more than a memoir; it’s a masterclass in perseverance, curiosity, and the boundless possibilities of a creative life.

In Words Without Music, Glass chronicles his journey from a Baltimore childhood to becoming a pioneer of minimalist music. His reflections on his early years — filled with curiosity and an insatiable appetite for learning — will resonate deeply with anyone who has felt the pull of creative expression. He didn’t find immediate success, nor did he follow a conventional path. Instead, Glass pursued his passions with a dogged determination, taking on jobs like plumbing and driving a taxi to fund his compositions.

What stands out to me most in Words Without Music is Glass’s commitment to his vision. His story reminds us that the creative process is rarely linear. It’s marked by trial and error, self-doubt, and resilience. He moved to Paris to study with the legendary Nadia Boulanger where he discovered how rigorous training would deepen his understanding of composition. Then it was his exposure to Indian music, particularly through working with Ravi Shankar, that transformed his approach to rhythm and structure. His blending of influences shows how stepping outside of our comfort zones can lead to groundbreaking discoveries.

Glass also emphasizes the importance of discipline. Contrary to the myth of waiting for inspiration to strike, he describes showing up to his work every day, whether or not he felt inspired. This practice-oriented mindset is a powerful reminder for anyone who struggles with creative blocks or perfectionism. Glass’s dedication underscores that mastery comes from consistent effort, even in the face of uncertainty.

For me, Words Without Music offers a wealth of lessons to incorporate into our creative living practices. His story invites us to consider how we can create spaces that encourage curiosity and experimentation. His openness to different art forms — from architecture to poetry — highlights the interconnectedness of all creative disciplines. Words Without Music serves as a reminder that inspiration often comes from unexpected places.

Glass’s willingness to collaborate with artists from various fields, including theatre and dance, speaks to the transformative power of interdisciplinary connections. As creatives, we can foster similar environments and draw from multiple sources of inspiration.

In a world that often prioritizes instant results, Glass’s memoir is a testament to the value of patience and persistence. It’s a book that will resonate not only with music lovers but with anyone navigating their creative journey.

If you’re looking for a profound and inspiring read, I highly recommend diving deeper into Words Without Music. Whether you’re an artist, musician, or simply someone seeking a deeper connection to creativity, this book will leave you inspired to embrace your own unique path.

To purchase Words Without Music and embark on your journey of creative inspiration click here: https://amzn.to/4bwoYQZ

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