Some subjects cannot be understood through logic alone. Writing, creativity, and art fall into this category. This explains why most books on the topic focus on practical steps. It is easier to offer concrete advice — but those books often miss the other side of the creative coin

Art cannot be explained without discussing the mystical. Just as Steven Pressfield discusses the “Muse” in his masterpiece The War of Art, Rick Rubin speaks of the “Source” — the universal, infinite fountain of creativity that artists listen to. I failed to appreciate Steven Pressfield on my first read, and I probably wouldn’t have understood Rick Rubin without that previous experience.

These books must be digested slowly.

• Avoid the audiobook.
• Read it piece by piece.
• Pause, re-read, and reflect often.

I love everything in this book. I love how art is defined and its manifestation through us. I have always been interested in creativity, and this is the best resource I’ve found to find the courage to complete any endeavor — whether it’s a book, a song, or a software application.

I’ve seen this book quoted so many times. It’s the biggest recognition that a book could dream of. The Creative Act is a life-changing book and one of my top picks of the year.