One problem of many writers is whether they like to be alone in order to concentrate or whether they can work in public to create their art. When Michael Crichton answered a question on the subject of solitude for writing, he said that on many occasions he had wished he was not alone. The issue he had was that when he felt inspired to write, he  could not get started. Then when he was in a position to write, he did not want to. He later got into the position to choose what script he would develop into a film and which not to. The world will miss his writing and directing talent.

George Carlin mentioned the special relationship the stand-up comic has with his public that he was privy to; being able to break down the barrier between audience and public so that he could interact better with them. This he said was something that jazz musicians have, being able to change the mood of a song during a live performance, according to the feedback they would get from the audience.

Paul Newman spoke of how close he came to himself when acting in the movie Verdict. There were some challenges that he spoke about, namely when the actor is thrust into a role he knows little about and so can not perform well because of some misconstrued forethought. He felt especially challenged with the movie Verdict. Paul will be remember for his method acting too.

There are other art greats besides these that passed away during 2008 like the playwright Harold Pinter, well know for his many plays that brought to light the ills of modern society and how people coped with them. Pity that many found him boring and he didn’t want to be. There were also Eartha Kitt, Van Johnson and some others. Apparently they all led full lives. They will be sadly missed.