On the War of Art
Steven Pressfield has at least one valid message in his book
The War of Art. Work ethic is important. But that message is hidden in a
collected reiteration of some of the most clichéd, regressive, and harmful
myths about writing and creating. His thinking is far more magical than
practical; it’s superstitious and flimsy in its reasoning. In his own way,
Pressfield is trying to reestablish the antiquated notion that the
artist/writer is predestined to his calling, that writing and creating can’t be
learned and practiced in terms of skill or craft. Moreover, his stubborn
insistence on using the masculine voice – he always refers to the theoretical
artist as “he” – signals his intention to Resist progressive theories about
writing and engaging the world.
It’s hard to argue against Pressfield’s personal success.
He’s published twelve books. But this is one I won’t be recommending.
Lighten up a little Steve-O; we’re in the 21st century.
