Friday, June 12, 2009

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Lincoln Marsh River June
5x7

There are voices which we hear in solitude, but they grow faint and inaudible as we enter into the world.    Ralph Waldo Emerson

From reading my blogger friends' posts, I've noticed something in the air lately.  Blogger burnout.  Over the past few months,  people are saying that they can't find the words, don't have time to post, too busy.  Just too much on the plate at the moment.  Something has to give.

I've been there myself.  Which is why I intend to ruminate on the above quote this summer.  It's only in solitude that we hear our own authentic voice, whether it's daydreaming, journaling or quietly pursuing our interests and hobbies.  It's time to fill the well.


10 comments:

Honor Bradley said...

How true...How true. The workshop I just attended brought home to me the need to have patience. To think not just act. To dig deep into myself to find my vision. I have always loved being outside and since I gave up golf for my art, I have neglected letting nature refill me. I actually took a walk outside this morning just to observe and be at one with nature. Enjoy your solitude.

Kathleen Krucoff said...

Hi Janelle,

I have to share another Emerson quote that a British blogger friend shared with me this week:

"Love of Beauty Is Taste,
The Creation of Beauty Is ART"

I am becoming a real fan of Emerson these days. I'm already a fan of your work!!! :) And you definitely create ART.

Karen said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm going to copy that quote.

We all need some vacations from our routines sometimes, even if they're usually enjoyable routines, like our blog. It's good to take some time off, too, and replenish.

ps. beautiful painting, too. :)

Janelle Goodwin said...

Hi Honor, Isn't it amazing how a simple walk in nature can inspire? Yes, it does refill. I love that term!

Hi Kathleen, Thanks so much for your wonderful Emerson quote. Maybe we should see if there's an Emerson group on Facebook!

Hi Karen, Yes, it's so good to get away from routines sometimes. I adore your new venture - documenting pubs in the neighborhoods. How creative!

Sheila Vaughan said...

I really do believe that Janelle and blogger burn out is real, I am sure. Even painter burn out is real. If I do two small paintings in one day I feel exhausted, as if I have been digging the road! By the way, this painting is beautifully calm and rich. Lovely colours and atmosphere.

Janelle Goodwin said...

Hi Sheila, Thanks so much. I find it amazing how much detail you get into your small paintings. Like small portraits of life. Yes, painting can be a lot of work - one needs to be inspired, which is why I need to get out in nature to find it.

Celeste Bergin said...

I still find blogging to be a motivator instead of a chore..but I understand that one day I may walk away from it never to return! It happens! Meanwhile, however, I am quite grateful for the whole blogging movement--for without it I would never have met you or gotten to see this beautiful new painting you posted. It is very welcoming.

Janelle Goodwin said...

Hi Celeste, Thank you for your very kind comments. I agree that blogging can be a motivator. I learn so much for other artists, like yourself, and enjoy meeting people from all over the world. Most artists are very generous people!

Jala Pfaff said...

Yes indeed.

Fabulous color here!!

Pam Holnback said...

Janelle, It is true that we need a break from our routine. For me, the break from my past routine of teaching became painting, then blogging. My life had been so regimented by school, bells, etc, that I wasn't used to free time. So, I filled it w/ a new life. In that life I have found blogging to be inspiring as well as a way to meet other people, have contacts, critiiques, etc. But, through this all, I have constantly taken daily walks and hikes. I have used these as motivation for many of my paintings.
maybe you just need a vacation from blogging; but, I think if you do, you'll miss it/us!!