
Leonard Cohen on Writing




“Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen,” said Leonardo Da Vinci. Both art forms are expressions of beauty and emotion, but they reach us in different ways.
In painting, we experience visual poetry through colors, shapes, and compositions, allowing our eyes to interpret the artist’s vision. In poetry, we feel the emotions and imagery through words, letting our hearts and minds paint vivid pictures.
Embrace the interplay between these art forms. Let your paintings tell a poetic story and your poems create vibrant imagery. Each form enriches the other, offering a deeper, more profound experience. Celebrate the harmony of sight and feeling, and let your creativity flow across both mediums.
“Creativity is just connecting things,” Steve Jobs observed.
When you ask creative people how they did something, they often feel a bit guilty because they didn’t invent it from scratch—they simply saw the connections. Over time, these connections seem obvious to them.
Embrace this process of seeing and linking ideas in new ways. Trust that your unique perspective allows you to notice patterns and relationships that others might miss.
Celebrate the simplicity and brilliance of making connections, knowing that creativity lies in recognizing and combining existing elements in fresh, innovative ways.
Your ability to see these connections can lead to extraordinary creations.

“Write with the door closed, rewrite with the door open,” advises Stephen King.
In the initial stages of writing, embrace solitude and focus, letting your ideas flow freely without external influences. This private space allows your creativity to flourish.
Once your first draft is complete, open the door and invite feedback. Revising with an open mind and fresh perspectives enriches your work, adding depth and clarity.
Balancing solitude with collaboration enhances your writing process, transforming your work into something even more powerful. Trust in your vision and welcome the insights of others to create something truly extraordinary.


“Creativity takes courage,” as Henri Matisse wisely said. It requires boldness to bring your unique vision to life, to share your innermost thoughts and ideas with the world. Each creative act is a brave step into the unknown, where doubts and fears must be overcome.
Embrace the courage within you, trusting that your creative journey will inspire and uplift others. Your bravery in expressing your creativity can light the way for others to follow their own paths.
Celebrate the fearless spirit of creativity, knowing that every brushstroke, word, or note contributes to a richer, more vibrant world. Let your courage shine through your creations, making a lasting impact on those who experience your work.
