I Essentially Am Not In Madness But Mad In Craft
When Shakespeare wrote the line "Though this be madness, yet there is method in't" in Hamlet, he was talking about the idea that someone who appears to be mad may actually be acting that way on purpose. This concept is often applied to artists and creatives who seem to have a touch of madness about them - but are they really mad, or just passionate about their craft?
For me, the answer is clear: I am not in madness. However, I am mad in craft. Let me explain.
What is Craft?
When we talk about "craft," we're usually referring to a specific skill or set of skills that someone has developed through practice and dedication. This could be anything from woodworking to painting to writing to cooking.
At its core, craft is about taking raw materials and shaping them into something beautiful, useful, or both. It requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and experiment.
Madness and Craft
There's a long-standing belief that creativity and madness are closely linked. Many famous artists, writers, and musicians have been known for their eccentricities or struggles with mental illness.
Some people argue that this is because creativity requires a certain level of risk-taking and vulnerability, which can lead to feelings of anxiety or instability. Others believe that the same traits that make someone creative also make them more prone to mental health issues.
Why I Am Not In Madness
While I certainly have my moments of self-doubt or frustration when it comes to my craft, I don't believe that these feelings make me "mad." In fact, I think they're a natural part of the creative process.
When I'm working on a project, I often feel a sense of urgency or excitement that can border on obsession. I'll stay up late into the night, neglecting other responsibilities, in order to bring my vision to life. But this doesn't mean that I'm losing touch with reality or acting irrationally.
Instead, I see my passion for my craft as a positive force in my life. It gives me purpose and direction, and helps me connect with others who share my interests.
Why I Am Mad In Craft
So if I'm not in madness, what does it mean to be "mad in craft?" To me, this phrase speaks to the intensity and focus that I bring to my creative pursuits.
When I'm in the midst of a project, everything else fades into the background. I become completely absorbed in the process of bringing my idea to life. I'll spend hours tinkering with a single line of code, or reworking a sentence until it's just right.
Some might see this level of dedication as excessive or obsessive. But for me, it's simply a reflection of how much I value my craft and the joy it brings me.
The Benefits of Being Mad In Craft
Being mad in craft has its challenges, to be sure. It can be difficult to strike a balance between creative pursuits and other aspects of life, like work, family, and relationships.
But I believe that the benefits far outweigh the costs. When I'm fully engaged in my craft, I experience a sense of flow and fulfillment that is difficult to replicate in other areas of life.
I also find that my creativity spills over into other areas of my life, making me more open-minded, curious, and adaptable. And by sharing my work with others, I'm able to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate the value of creativity and self-expression.
Conclusion
So am I mad in craft? Yes, absolutely. But I don't see this as a negative thing. Instead, it's a testament to how much I value my creative pursuits and the joy they bring me.
Whether you're a writer, artist, musician, or any other kind of creative, I encourage you to embrace your own madness in craft. Pursue your passions with intensity and dedication, and don't be afraid to take risks or experiment along the way.