The worth, wealth and wisdom of the arts
is mainly two-fold: socially and economically.
Socially means culturally and linguistically. Jointly.
Contextually, socially stands for people. Narrators.
On a social basis, people communicate, authenticate
and illuminate. Without communication there is chaos.
Are bards not the forgotten fountains of culture and heritage?
When it comes to the profession or avocation
of an artist like a poet, a playwright or a novelist,
the few fabulous fans and beautiful bookworms
have the time, pleasure and courtesy to purchase
a creative’s work at best, or to shower him or her
with words of encouragement and acknowledgement.
Making a living out of one’s intellectual craft or hustle
is or should be each and every artist’s dream and station.
Writing, like the teaching profession is noble and rational.
It’s a rare, intellectually challenging yet enlightening calling.
It’s a time-consuming, educative, addictive and edifying job.
It takes a measure of time, practice, passion, flair and sacrifice.
Yet like teaching, to a very large extent, it remains unappreciated.
However, the story is changing for the better for creatives
in Ireland. It’s as if it has suddenly dawned on the authorities.
“These souls cannot make ends meet. It’s an endless daily struggle
for them. Let’s make things a little easier for them. Remember,
we launched a basic income scheme for artists during the pandemic.
Let’s make it permanent!”. It’s a dream come true. A weekly stipend!