Original artwork, not a still
I decided that I would do my best in future not to write books just for the money. If you didn’t get the money, then you didn’t have anything. If I did work I was proud of, and I didn’t get the money, at least I’d have the work.
— Address to the University of the Arts Class of 2012
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Money is an uncertain reward, so the speaker wants another reason for doing the work. Pride in what has been made remains available even when payment does not arrive. The distinction gives creative effort a value that cannot disappear entirely with its financial outcome.
Context reviewed
