May I have a word with you about an important topic? Whether you agree with this statement or not, here goes: Writers are artists. Creative writing is called creative because it employs one's imagination and unconscious mind, which is what defines an artist. Now that we are on the same page, here is what I would like to say about artisans: WE ARE DIFFERENT. We think differently. Our lifestyles are different. We may even look like artists on the outside because we are representing the oddity that is on the inside. When I say odd it is not a condemnation, but a recognition that the Art Gods will exact from us one thing above all: they do not allow us to conform. Conformity is fine; it's alright and needed in many situations. The world needs structure, methods and tools. But I beg you, allow the artists, writers, painters, sculptors, dancers, actors, and any other artistic expressionist who uses any medium, allow them to be their different, strange, odd, nonconforming selves. Because it is part of the gig. We cannot think like the pack. We tried that, and it didn't work for us! It only repressed and depressed us until we burst free of the confines to say something representationally; to bring a message of wildness, or to generate uncontrollable feeling, or to simply contribute beauty or smiles to the world in an indirect way. Please do not make us be like you. For, as much as we appreciate your rules and formulas, the world also needs freedom, and the wild things-the artists. (This was one of my favorite books as a child. Now it makes so much sense why).