Being a fan of something or someone is inevitable. It’s an ageless practice. It’s also a cornerstone of the creative world. We all start by imitating our idols, just like children imitate their parents as they learn about the world.
Later on, as we grow as creatives, I believe our sense of curiosity expands, too. It goes beyond imitation and starts inviting introspection.
Ever since I saw this 99u talk by Nishat Akhtar, I’ve been more intentional about asking myself how I discovered or refined my own tastes in anything. It all sparked from the question: “Why do I like what I like?”
At first glance, that question sounds simple. However, it opens intriguing doors. When I look closely at the artists and creators I admire, I spot patterns. They tell me what moves me and what inspires me to create something of my own.
Here are a few examples of how I inspect my own fandoms.
Depeche Mode
I’ve loved them since I was five years old. I kid you not! Dave Gahan’s vocals are unforgettable.
As I’ve grown into adulthood, I’ve come to admire their bold lyrics even more. The songs can reach places in your mind that you had not explored before. “Nothing”, “Higher Love”, and “Soul With Me” are just a few examples. Or you can also take a deeper listen to the iconic “Enjoy the Silence”.
What I love most is their intensity. Depeche Mode is the kind of band that makes music dark, tasteful, spiritual, and strange all at once. That’s a special combo.
Clarice Lispector
She quickly became one of my favourite authors because of her level of introspection. It’s out of this world. I’ve heard that she was not truly writing; she was talking to herself on paper. That gave birth to the most mystical stories, metaphors, and contemplations.
Every time I read a single line from any of her books, I tell myself: “I wish I could write like that. I’ve got to find a way.”
I can’t help but be a fan.
Mary Oliver
I’m deeply impressed by her poetry and connection to the very substance of life. I recently made a TikTok video on one of her poems from Little Alleluias.
@alicestrathernauthor More on why I love “Little Alleluias” by MaryOliver. I read one of her prose poems. #booktok #poetry #readpoetry #bookworms
I admire her ability to notice. Her writing reminds me that the ordinary is actually extraordinary when we pay attention.
I love being a fan of these artists! I could list more examples, but then this post would be endless.
And yet, this exercise has helped me discover something important: what I admire in others is available in me too.
I can channel complex feelings and express them as powerfully as Depeche Mode. And I can do it my way.
I can explore my psyche and craft monologues or deep stories like Clarice Lispector. And I can do it through my own voice. In my own style.
I can be a deep observer and feeler of life like Mary Oliver. And I can share my own findings in ordinary life.
That’s why being a fan is so important. It’s not only about admiration, but also about recognizing possibility within ourselves. Our idols’ work becomes a mirror.
It’s a game changer to go deeper into your own tastes and get curious on why you’re drawn to certain expressions of art.
So what are you a fan of? And what might that admiration be trying to show you about yourself?