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Don’t we revel in knowing the personal dynamics and conversations between people? Letters provide a means for such guilt-free intrusions that help us reflect or see human emotions floating around. I've read the letters written by Franz Kafka to Milena, Oscar Wilde to Boise and his devoted friends. And now, I'm reading the letters written by Vincent Van Gogh to his loving brother Theo and fellow painters. I've realised that these letters shed light on vital aspects of the lives and works of these complex and tortured men. They’re written as though a fever dragged the authors out of bed and onto a table holding a feather dipped in ink – to put down what would’ve assaulted them if left unspoken.
After trying a few different vocations and realising that painting being his genuine calling, Vincent was steadfast in his resolve to pursue it. He was an art dealer, teacher, bookseller, priest, and preacher. This understanding struck me: we are often afraid to try new things in the little amount of time we have, before discovering the endeavour that will give our lives direction for the long haul. Despite all of the difficulties, failures, and setbacks that Vincent had to go through, he had the most optimistic mentality that I have ever read about. Without reading his journey through life and his famous letters, I would not have had the capability of being the version of myself that I am today. He encourages me to work without thinking about success or to achieve perfection by reflecting on my profession.
March has been quite demanding, and I was losing the will to continue any task in a way that would make me feel content. That made me hold onto this book. Vincent wrote so openly about his life – despite living in a world where he had to struggle for basic necessities like food and shelter; he never stopped putting his love of painting first. Even though every friend and close relative, failing to see his actual aptitude and zeal for it, counselled him against painting, he prioritised painting over feeding himself. On reading this compilation, I was filled with passion and a fresh perspective for my dreams, to make sure that I respect my ideas and never doubt my perceptions. It encouraged me to take a chance and experiment while also putting more of my thoughts forward to help others.
What could it do to you?
The letters will inspire you to write to the people you care about. After reading Vincent Van Gogh, you might want to be more forthcoming about your emotions. Despite having little means of assistance, he made sure to make things easy on himself by being open and sincere with everyone. As Theo Van Gogh cared for his brother Vincent for many years, you too might develop a new regard for the person assisting you in realising your dreams. As Vincent did when he wrote about the painters he adored and the books that kept him sane with painting, you might too write about your passion and wish to reach out to people who are skilled in your line of work so that you can learn all about your trade. You would start respecting your time regardless of how successful you feel in this world or even if you do not. And, you would want to leave jobs that are only providing you with financial support but not enhancing your creativity for your passion projects.
This book would be a better self-help book for people looking for inspiration in literature. It would also teach you about art history, make you fall in love with your abilities, and inspire you to become a better version of yourself. This book would wake you up without the need of an alarm clock to start a new day and make the most of everything you have.
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For the love of art,
Sahil Sihag
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