While the platitudes of many great creative thinkers, along with Meindl’s own worthy insights into the subject, inspire and motivate, it is the strong current of “do it, do it now” that runs through the book that is the most notable aspect of At Left Brain Turn Right. Numerous references to this mantra populate the books pages. For example, in Chapter 12, following a quote from W.L. Murray that concludes with the statement “Begin it now.” Meindl writes “He didn’t say think about it. He didn’t say question it and attempt it later. He didn’t say put it aside and ask for the opinions of other people. He didn’t say sleep on it and re-examine it tomorrow. He said do it. Now.” Appropriately, Chapter 12 is titled “Do It, Then Fix Later.”
I greatly enjoyed Anthony Meindl and his book, At Left Brain Turn Right. What he has to say is intellectual yet accessible. But be warned. Creativity is mercurial. It can be hard to navigate. The directive of “At Left Brain Turn Right” seems simple enough, but I still got lost before getting there; in my case, lost in the creative possibilities.
(Reviewed by Joseph Yurt for Reader Views)
Article comments
1 - Dr Joseph S Maresca
The struggle between the "ID" and how the individual fits into the society at large can be a lifelong search. At some point, the individual has to reach for something better than merely pleasurable experiences.
The thing to do is to enjoy the process of life and help others to the extent possible to derive a higher purpose in life other than a mere existence. To a considerable extent, we are social beings in search of an appropriate role within the society at large and the world.