My Greatest Unfinished Work: Journey of Passion and Persistence
The journey of an artist or a creator is often marked by unfinished work. Sometimes, this work remains incomplete not because of lack of talent or effort, but due to a personal ambition or a broader life challenge. For example, in Hanging In the Air (2022), Peter Cheung reflects on his greatest unfinished work, which is among his many uncompleted songs from over a decade ago. This article delves into the themes of unfinished work, personal ambition, and the ongoing journey of passion and persistence.
The Greatest Unfinished Works of Life
Leonard Cohen once said that one's greatest work is often their unfinished life. This sentiment echoes in the pages of Hanging In the Air where Cheung lists his life as perhaps the biggest unfinished work. Despite the trials and tribulations of a life started in 1942, including the challenges of World War II and subsequent pandemics, his life continues to evolve and it is incomplete, at least in the sense that he is still growing and changing.
Cheung also mentions his unfinished ambition to establish his own art gallery, indicating that even after a rich professional life as a writer, he still dreams big. This highlights the spectrum of our ambitions, from personal growth to professional achievements, that rarely get fully realized in a lifetime.
Another example of an unfinished work is a small mural that the author is working on for a local cafe. While it will soon be complete, the act of creation—a process that takes weeks or even months—stands as a testament to the value and progress of less profound, more immediate accomplishments.
Reflecting on Unfinished Personal Projects
Among all the unfinished works, a particularly poignant example is a videogame project for the author. This project, which the author views as both a hobby and a dream, captures the essence of a long-term creative venture. Growing up, the author was intrigued by video games and particularly the simple, classic titles of the past. Honing these interests, the author has since become proficient enough to create his own version of these games using modern technology like Unreal Engine. This example shows how a personal passion can develop and metamorphose over time, becoming a significant piece of one's creative output.
The passage also includes a reflection on personal challenges and the meaning of success, highlighting that even those who consider themselves "hopeless individuals" can still contribute meaningfully to the world. The author’s ability to write and publish, despite a lack of other talents, is a reminder that creative pursuits can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the greatest unfinished work is often the work that we leave behind, be it a song, a life, a painting, or a videogame. It is the residue of our dreams, our struggles, and our aspirations. As Cheung and the author demonstrate, these unfinished works guide us, inspire us, and prompt us to continue the journey of life and creativity.