An audience is always warming but it must never be necessary to your work

An audience is always warming but it must never be necessary to your work

Gertrude Stein, a pioneering American writer and art collector, was known for her avant-garde literary style and experimental approach to language. Throughout her career, Stein often challenged traditional notions of narrative and syntax, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in literature. One of her most famous quotes, "An audience is always warming but it must never be necessary to your work," encapsulates her belief in the importance of artistic integrity and creative independence.

Stein's statement suggests that while an audience can provide validation and support for an artist, their approval should not be the driving force behind the work itself. Instead, Stein believed that true artistry comes from within, from a deep well of creativity and self-expression that is not dependent on external validation. By emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision, Stein encourages artists to trust their instincts and follow their own unique voice, rather than conforming to the expectations of others.