You Will Never Do Anything Remarkable

Illegitimi non carborundum, yo.
The Fifth Science Paperback ► (you may need to change your region accordingly: .co.uk, etc)

I also make horrendous music ►
For sending personalised insults ►
Help me to do this full-time, if you're deranged enough ►
The rest of my books ►

So.
The original line was, “If they give you ruled paper, write the other way.” As far as I can tell it’s Juan Ramón Jiménez’s.

I am also now painfully aware I've written a half as '2/1'. Sorry maths.

Please note that this wasn’t intended to be a diatribe against critics or experts. They obviously play an important role. It was more directed at the recreational cynicism one comes across in daily life from time to time, generally pointed at young artists. I have had the privilege to meet plenty of people 1000x more talented than me, who are simultaneously doubting their abilities because of some stupid comment made by an unpleasant teacher or jaded family member.

If you are that artist, I really just wanted to say: You’re in good company; the Greats doubted themselves too. Don’t let the bastards get you down and I hope you make all manner of interesting and fantastic things.

The music is the 3rd movement of Big Baus Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major:

I like that piece lots. I hope you do too.

Again, all the very best of luck in your projects.

Remarkable