CREATIVE INSECURITY

Does any artist know when their work is  good?  Aren't we all insecure and full of self-doubt? I've flattered myself that I've done good work before but with time and distance from it I recognize my mediocrity. It's tough to be honest with yourself about your creative work. 

Then again, what does it really matter? It makes me think of a great scene from the movie, Julia based on Lillian Hellman's short story. (Apologies to the screenwriter but I'm paraphrasing here). While trying to write her first play The Children's Hour, Lillian says to her lover Dashiell Hammett, "I think I'll give up writing. It's too hard." He replies, "This is a good time to stop. No one will miss you." 

Of course she didn't stop, thank goodness, and dammit, neither will I. And neither should you.