Morrissey: 'Artists aren't really people. And I'm actually 40 per cent papier mache.'

Artists aren't really people. And I'm actually 40 per cent papier mache.

Morrissey, the renowned British singer and songwriter, once made an intriguing statement that has since puzzled and fascinated fans and critics alike: 'Artists aren't really people. And I'm actually 40 per cent papier mache.' At first glance, this quote may seem like a whimsical and self-deprecating remark, but upon deeper reflection, it holds a profound meaning about the nature of artists and their connection to their craft. It suggests that artists exist in a realm beyond the ordinary, transcending the boundaries of what it means to be human. Furthermore, Morrissey's admission of being partially composed of papier mache brings forth unexpected philosophical considerations, inviting us to explore the complexities of identity, authenticity, and the transformative power of art.To understand the significance of Morrissey's statement, one must delve into the underlying notion that artists are distinct from regular individuals. This perspective suggests that artists possess a unique sensibility and a heightened capacity to perceive and express emotions, ideas, and experiences. Unlike 'normal' people, artists are more attuned to the world around them, absorbing its essence and distilling it into their creative endeavors. They possess an innate ability to tap into the depths of their humanity and transmit those intricacies through their chosen medium.By stating that he is "40 per cent papier mache," Morrissey unveils a metaphorical aspect of his being, alluding to an artificial or constructed element within himself. Papier mache, a material crafted from layers of paper combined with adhesive, symbolizes artifice, reinvention, and transformation. In this admission, Morrissey implies that as an artist, he is both authentic and orchestrated, genuine and constructed. It raises the question of whether artists, in pursuit of their craft, can distance themselves so far from reality that they become akin to the very creations they forge.This concept opens the door to a philosophical discussion on the nature of authenticity and our perception of reality. If artists are capable of channeling experiences, emotions, and ideas through their work, does that mean their creations become reflections of reality in a purer form than reality itself? Are artists, given their ability to transcend the mundane, more authentic than regular individuals? Or does their inclination towards constructing and shaping their art distance them from the authentic human experience? Perhaps the truth lies somewhere in between, as artists engage in a delicate balance between capturing the essence of reality while engaging in a process of self-expression and manipulation.In many ways, Morrissey's quote challenges our preconceived notions of what it means to be human and the boundaries we assign to art and its creators. It invites us to explore the interplay between reality and imagination, between the constructed and the authentic. It highlights the transformative power of art to shape and reshape not only the world of the artist but also our own perceptions and understanding.Ultimately, Morrissey's statement is a thought-provoking reminder of the enigmatic nature of artists and their craft. It prompts us to question our understanding of reality, authenticity, and the transcendent qualities that art possesses. As we contemplate the notion of being 40 per cent papier mache, we are led down a philosophical rabbit hole, contemplating the intricate complexities of identity and the indelible mark that art leaves upon the human experience. Through the prism of this quote, we are invited to view artists not merely as individuals but as conduits of something greater, breathing life into the intangible and reminding us of the profound connection between art and the human soul.