There is much talk about having the right surrounding atmosphere—as if that mattered much! I have seen the creative act done under the most trying circumstances. Indeed, I often suspect, as I will later discuss more fully, that what the individual regards as ideal conditions for creativity is not what is needed, but rather the constant impinging of reality is often a great help. In the past I have deliberately managed myself in this matter by promising a result by a given date, and then, like a cornered rat, having at the last minute to find something!
