Cyril Connolly
The Quote in Other Words
The artist experiences a sudden fall into a thorny area, and thereafter embarks on a journey along a subterranean stream that can occasionally run close enough to the surface for the sounds of joyful gatherings to be audible.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote speaks to the journey of an artist, who at some point in their life, falls through a hole in the brambles. This moment marks the beginning of a journey down an underground river, where the artist is constantly navigating the dark rapids. The river may sometimes flow so close to the surface that the sounds of laughter from picnic parties can be heard above. This metaphorical journey represents the artist’s struggle to create and express themselves, often in the face of adversity. The brambles represent the obstacles and challenges that the artist must overcome, while the underground river represents the artist’s inner world and the depths of their creativity. The quote suggests that the artist’s journey is not always easy, but it is ultimately rewarding and can lead to moments of joy and celebration.