The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is a powerful and thought-provoking book that tackles the inner battle all creatives face the battle against resistance. In this inspiring manifesto, Pressfield explores the concept of "Resistance," the force that prevents people from pursuing their dreams, doing meaningful work, and achieving their creative potential.

Plot Overview:

In The War of Art, Steven Pressfield takes readers on a journey to understand and confront the internal obstacles that stop them from achieving their goals, whether in art, writing, business, or any other field. Drawing from his own experiences as a writer, Pressfield explains how resistance manifests in various forms procrastination, fear, self-doubt, and distraction and how to overcome these challenges to become a professional in your craft.

Through a mix of personal stories, philosophy, and practical advice, Pressfield offers strategies for turning pro, facing the discomfort that comes with creative work, and embracing the daily grind that is necessary to succeed. The book is divided into three sections, each addressing different aspects of the creative struggle, ultimately helping readers break free from the self-imposed limits and fear that hold them back.

Why The War of Art is a Must-Read:

Unflinching Honesty: Steven Pressfield doesn’t sugarcoat the struggle that comes with creating meaningful work. He acknowledges the difficulties and challenges but provides the tools and mindset needed to keep going in spite of them. It’s a call to arms for anyone who has ever felt stuck or struggled with self-doubt.

Transformative for Creatives: Whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or anyone working on a personal project, The War of Art offers a framework for turning pro and tackling the resistance that stands in your way. Pressfield’s insights inspire readers to take ownership of their creative work and approach it with discipline and commitment.

Powerful Mindset Shift: The book encourages a shift in mindset from being an amateur to becoming a professional in your field, no matter what your craft is. Pressfield highlights the importance of showing up every day and doing the work, even when it feels difficult or unglamorous. This no-nonsense approach to productivity and creativity is both motivating and liberating.

Memorable Quotes from The War of Art:

“Resistance will tell you anything to keep you from doing your work. It will perjure, fabricate, falsify; seduce, bully, cajole. Resistance is protean. It will assume any form, be it a voice in your head, a physical ailment, or the weather.”

“Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance.”

“Turning pro is the key to defeating Resistance.”

Book Details:

• Title: The War of Art

• Author: Steven Pressfield

• ISBN: 9781936891023

• Publisher: Black Irish Entertainment

• Published Year: 2002

• Number of Pages: 165

• Binding: Paperback

Availability at booxworm.lk:

You can purchase The War of Art from our online store at booxworm.lk or visit our physical stores to grab your copy.

Physical Store Locations:

• Colombo 6, Wellawatte – 180 W.A. Silva Mawatha

If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to break through your creative blocks and finally do the work you've been putting off, The War of Art is the perfect read. It's a short but powerful book that will help you confront the resistance that stands between you and your goals, providing the motivation to keep going.