There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman

There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman

Emile Zola, the renowned French writer and critic, once famously said, “There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman.” This statement encapsulates the duality of the artistic process, highlighting the innate creativity of the poet and the learned skill of the craftsman.

Zola himself was a master of both the poetic and the craft of writing. His natural talent for storytelling and his ability to evoke powerful emotions through his words marked him as a poet in his own right. His vivid descriptions of characters and settings, his keen observations of human nature, and his ability to tackle complex social issues with depth and sensitivity all speak to his poetic sensibilities.

However, Zola was also a meticulous craftsman, honing his skills through years of practice and dedication. He believed in the importance of structure, form, and technique in writing, and he was known for his meticulous attention to detail. Zola’s commitment to his craft is evident in his extensive body of work, which includes novels, plays, essays, and criticism, all of which showcase his mastery of language and storytelling.