John Cleese, Monty Python Icon, on How to Be Creative

A couple of years ago, Maria Popova highlighted for us a 2009 talk by John Cleese that offered a handbook for creating the right conditions for creativity. Of course, John Cleese knows something about creativity, being one of the leading forces behind Monty Python, the beloved British comedy group.

Now, we have another talk, recorded circa 1991, where Cleese uses scientific research to describe what creativity is … and what creativity isn’t. He starts by telling us, creativity is not a talent. It has nothing to do with IQ. It is a way of doing things, a way of being — which means that creativity can be learned. The rest he explains in 37 thought-filled minutes.

Related Content:

Malcolm McLaren: The Quest for Authentic Creativity

Amy Tan: The Sources of Creativity

The Universal Mind of Bill Evans: Advice on Learning to Play Jazz & The Creative Process

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