Your elusive creative genius

TED Talk - Elizabeth Gilbert | TED2009 February 2009

In her TED Talk "Your Elusive Creative Genius," Elizabeth Gilbert redefines the concept of creativity, challenging the traditional view where genius is seen as an innate, rare quality. Gilbert suggests that creativity isn't just within us but flows through us, inspired by the ancient Greco-Roman belief in external creative entities or 'daemons'. This perspective aims to reduce the pressure artists feel to consistently perform at a genius level.

Gilbert shares personal stories and those of other creatives like Tom Waits, illustrating how this externalisation of creativity can foster a more resilient and joyful creative process. By not identifying solely with our creative output, we can better handle the ups and downs of artistic work. This approach encourages persistence, as the fear of failure is less about personal inadequacy and more about the ebb and flow of creative inspiration.

Her talk, filled with humour and personal anecdotes, invites everyone to engage in creativity without the burden of being a 'genius'. It's a call to embrace the process, to value curiosity over fear, and to understand that creativity is a journey, not a destination defined by perfection.

Video credit TED