My Mission Statement

I do not concern myself with the superficial. I never have. The truth is that such an enterprise would destroy me, turn us into a fool, and take me from the integrity of my artistry.

I have always believed that as a writer, it was my prerogative to take the world and tear it down with words, only to rebuild it into something else: something divine yet exotic. I must observe the picture, see how those presented in it relate to one another and give them a life. How could i do that if i became just another subject in its space, allowing the picture to absorb me into its reality?

As long as i do not get absorbed into the minutia of it all, I have a chance. I must see the picture as a whole, but still be able to get close to notice how each subject is refined enough to be distinct, but still able to be part of a whole. Yet I must never try to be truly part of this whole, this collective that demands I be placated to there definition of normality.

There is an eerie calm in that. I realize that I do not have to beg and pander for attention from anyone. I can find strength in my own deeds, take pride in my skills, and create works of beauty and pain.

And yet, society and the people in it frustrate me. I must still contend with those who praise the superficial, who silently revere it as their patron saint. Even those I am found of take to praising this. For example, a girl: radiant and supple, and with a wit and character unmatched among all the nymphs of our Inland Empire, comes walking by. I find myself swooning, longing for her company among all others. But what am i to speak of? I try to keep the subject on things we both love, oceans and romance and books. And still, another man comes and without he even trying, she flocks to him and silently begs for his attentions just as i pine for hers.

And in the end, I am left wondering "why is this man born with such strength with women while I am born so weak?"

I do not fear the artificial. The artificial is meant for portrayal of meaning and soul. It can be laughter and tears, comedy and tragedy, hope and despair all tied to one solitary icon. What I fear is the superficial, the tendency to gloss over someone's form and actions as popular or unpopular without first knowing why they choose to act as such.

I am Process Of Belief. I can be no more or no less.