Creator’s Remorse (Word For The Week)
Creator’s remorse is a feeling of regret or sadness a creator feels towards their work.
It could be experienced while still creating it, immediately after completion, shortly after being done, or long after they are done with the work.
I have seen great authors, musicians, painters, movie makers, and other creatives feel remorse for some of their works.
In some cases, fans, critics, colleagues, and even oppositions might consider such works to be masterpieces, yet the maker feels sad about them.
Some artists would go as far as destroying the original or master copies. Others will turn down their royalties or donate them to charity.
This remorse and ill-feeling are why you see some musicians stop performing some of their songs.
Irrespective of how much their fans request for the song, or how much money is offered, they just won’t perform it.
Creator’s remorse, if not properly handled and channeled, can lead to dipping in creativity. In some cases, it can be career-threatening.
The creator’s remorse can be caused by a memory attached to the piece, a change in the belief of the creator, growth, and maturity, or the situation under which the piece was created.
Whatever the case, a break and an analysis of the situation can be very helpful.
If you or someone you know is experiencing creator’s remorse, please know that you are not the first to go through this.
“And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.”
– Genesis 6:6
God was sad that he created man after the fall of man. You can read the verses that follow to see his decision regarding that.
Creator’s remorse is not depression. It can lead to depression, but it is not depression.
You should seek professional help if you need it getting out of that headspace and regaining your “spark“.
However you feel about the past, there will always be a chance to create something new tomorrow.
Wilson Joshua is a Video Editor, Content Creator, and Creative Writer.
You can follow him on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. @IJOSWIL
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