Great Quotations: The Mountain Goats

American Songwriter participates in affiliate programs with various companies. Links originating on American Songwriter’s website that lead to purchases or reservations on affiliate sites generate revenue for American Songwriter . This means that American Songwriter may earn a commission if/when you click on or make purchases via affiliate links.

Videos by American Songwriter

“I used to be deeply against this idea [that one must suffer to produce great art]. And then I had some life events happen that were painful, and my writing got better as I worked through them. I don’t think that an artist must suffer, but there is no one who is not going to do so. The question is whether or not you take that as an opportunity for greater growth. … Good craft doesn’t necessarily need suffering. But it can’t hurt.”

– The Mountain Goats’ John Darnielle (via The Nashville Scene)

Log In