Some people wonder if expressive arts practitioners are actually hoarders in disguise.
The tools of the trade include many art supplies, vast assortments of paper, fabrics, craft materials, objects from nature or from neglected basement boxes, not to mention books, audio and photo files, notebooks, etc., etc. One reason for all of this stuff is that our imaginations relate to the world through our five senses, and through intuition (our “sixth sense”), and we are inspired by so many other creative souls with so many avenues for their wonderful work and ways of being in the world. It is about making meaning, and building deep relationships, and nourishing our spirits through all the twists and turns of life. Metaphors from nature, from the seasons, from simple everyday routines and activities abound here. It can get cluttered, and we need practices that help us to ground, to anchor ourselves from the kaleidoscope of emotions, sights, sounds and movements.
At a songwriting workshop, our teacher gave us inspiration from the cleaner, who had commented that morning, “my work is never done.” Here’s my song from that session:
Clutterbug
When the cleaner comes
I have to tidy up the whole house
For I’d hate for her to see the mess we live in every day.
And my cellphone
Has so many different ringtones
That I’ve programmed in to help me to remember who is calling.
Chorus:
I’m a clutterbug, I like variety and fun
But mid-life hits and suddenly my little brain is spun!
A clutterbug in midlife, my work is never done.
When it’s Saturday
And it’s my turn to cook supper
I spend hours browsing recipes I’ve clipped from Chatelaine
And the leftovers
On Garbage Day the fridge is full
Of recyclable containers filled with little bits of food!
Chorus
In my study
There is floor to ceiling paper
And sketching tips and scrapbooking and crafting magazines.
Writing memoirs
Is the best excuse I’ve ever found
For saving all my treasures for years and years and years!
Chorus
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