Martha Graham to Agnes Demille

There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening

That is translated through you into action

And because there is only one of you in all time

This expression is unique. If you block it

It will never exist through any other medium

and be lost.

The world will not hear it.

It is not your business to determine how good it is;

Nor how valuable it is;

Nor how it compares with other expressions.

It is your business to keep it yours,

clearly and directly,

To keep the channel open.

You do not even have to believe in yoursel

for your work.

You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges

that motivate you.

Keep the channel open.

No artist is pleased.

There is no satisfaction whatever at any time.

There is only a queer, divine dissatisfaction,

A blessed unrest that keeps us marching

And makes us more alive than the others.

--Martha Graham to Agnes Demille