Complacency Is Detrimental to Creativity

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 10 October 2024 "I'm still learning." Michelangelo Michelangelo's famous quote, "I am still learning," encapsulates the essence of his insatiable curiosity and unwavering dedication to his craft. Despite being renowned as one of the greatest artists of all time, Michelangelo never allowed himself to become complacent or stagnant in his journey towards mastery. He recognized that true greatness lies in the understanding that there is always more to learn and discover. This humble acknowledgment of his own limitations propelled him to constantly push the boundaries of his artistic abilities, allowing him to create masterpieces that continue to inspire awe centuries later. Michelangelo's quote serves as a timeless reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and growth is a lifelong endeavour, regardless of one's level of expertise. The humility in believing that one's learning all the time makes a person magnanimous and grounded. Once an individual understands that he's learning, he'll not dare teach others. To quote Urdu poet Shuja Khawar, "Apna Hi Ilm Mukammal Na Hua/ Kya Khaak Duniya Ko Sikhayenge Hum" (When my own knowledge is not complete/ What on earth will I teach the world?). We all have come across certain individuals who consider themselves to be the fountainhead of wisdom. Such deluded humans start condescending and begin to teach others. Whether it's on this forum or on the stage of life, we mustn't behave as if we've learnt everything and now it's our divine duty to educate others. Allama Iqbal kept polishing his philosophical poetry book Zarb-e-Kaleem (The Rod of Moses) till he breathed his last in 1938. Its first edition was published in 1935. Roman poet Horace wrote Ars Poetica a number of times but was still not satisfied, though it's a masterpiece in world literature. Written around 19 BC, Ars Poetica is a letter to the Roman consul Lucius Calpurnius Piso and his sons, offering advice on poetry and drama. It has influenced European literature and criticism since the Renaissance. Lord Byron wanted to rewrite his satirical, epic poem Don Juan. It's a gem of English poetry. One has to be fastidious about one's own creations to create the very best for the posterity. There's always enough scope for betterment. Complacency is detrimental to creativity. --- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/complacency-detrimental-creativity/d/133402 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism