People who try and don't make it are subject to contempt and scorn.

It's society's way of saying, "We only need a few great people to be artists, and if you're not that, then go back to doing something else useful for people."

And in our society, usefulness is measured by income.

It's a question of how much is it worth to you, and are you willing to pay the cost? Are you willing to suffer for years to make it and actually produce worthwhile art?

Some have the creative drive to the point where it's their only option. Others could take it or leave it.

Frankly, I used to try to look interesting and found it's far better to look boring and do what makes me happy. But that's just what works for me.

Never forget that we're all different people with somewhat different needs.

David Berman of the Silver Jews (may he rest in peace) wrote the following about the artistic struggle: "If we'd known what it would cost to get here, would we have chosen to?"