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The Cow Analogy: Balancing Creativity and Commercial Expectations
The concept of the cow analogy illustrates the delicate balance between personal creative satisfaction and external commercial pressures. Initially, there is intrinsic enjoyment in the creative process, akin to a cow producing milk for its own satisfaction. As the output gains popularity and financial value, the creator feels encouraged to scale production, leading to the establishment of a system, or 'industrial apparatus,' that demands consistent output. This transition creates a scenario where the creator must regularly engage in production to sustain the increased expectations and overhead that accompany a larger operation. This shift may result in a sense of diminished fulfillment, as the joy of creation becomes intertwined with the need to meet external demands. The analogy humorously captures these dynamics while also highlighting the potential disconnect between initial passion and resultant obligations.