Catching the Big Fish

Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity

By: David Lynch

Narrated by: David Lynch

Length: 1 hr and 48 mins

Publisher's summary

In Catching the Big Fish, internationally acclaimed filmmaker David Lynch provides a rare window into his methods as an artist, his personal working style, and the immense creative benefits he has experienced from the practice of meditation.

Lynch describes the experience of "diving within" and "catching" ideas like fish and then preparing them for television or movie screens and other mediums in which he works, such as painting, music, and design. Lynch writes for the first time about his more than three-decade commitment to Transcendental Meditation and the difference it has made in his creative process.

In brief chapters, Lynch explains the development of his ideas: where they come from, how he grasps them, and which ones appeal to him the most. He specifically discusses how he puts his thoughts into action and how he engages with others around him. Finally, he considers the self and the surrounding world and how the process of "diving within" that has so deeply affected his own work can directly benefit others.

Catching the Big Fish will come as a revelation to the legions of fans who have longed to better understand Lynch's personal vision. And it will be equally intriguing to those who wonder how they can nurture their own creativity.

©2006 Bobkind Inc. (P)2006 Penguin Audio, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc. All rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“The quirky helmer known for Boy Scout demeanor and twisted tales shares his creative vision in a surprisingly gentle tome informed by the underlying teachings of Transcendental Meditation. But don’t worry: David Lynch, one-time creator of “The Angriest Dog in the World” comic, keeps the proselytizing to a minimum. He addresses topics ranging from working with wood (for it) to director’s commentaries (against) in deceptively simple, yet ultimately affirming, chapters. There’s much for fans and aspiring filmmakers to enjoy.” (Variety)

“With this book, Lynch offers us a rare glimpse into his own head. In the process, he reveals just enough biographical information, philosophy of film, and general behind-the-scenes dirt (including the connection between Lynch's Lost Highway and O. J. Simpson)to keep the attention of those more interested in Lynch's films than in his consciousness.” (Booklist)

"Ideas are like fish. If you want to catch little fish, you can stay in the shallow water. But if you want to catch the big fish, you've got to go deeper, says David Lynch the idiosyncratic filmmaker whose creations include Eraserhead, Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, Inland Empire, and the cult TV classic, Twin Peaks. He claims that he has savored the pleasures of diving deep thanks to a 33-year practice of Transcendental Meditation (TM). He describes the fun of gathering what he calls 'firewood' (all kinds of ideas and things for a film), the joy he takes in seeing an aging building or a rusted bridge, and the respect he has for Fellini and Kubrick. Lynch loves making movies and diving deep, and this testament bears witness to both loves.” (Spirituality & Practice)

Great insights!!!

Not a David Lynch fan necessarily. Interesting how he develops his ideas and let them run. Very cool that he has been into meditating so long and is supportive on the topic for younger generations.

Worth your time!

Great way to open up my mind and understand success has many faces and the steps to get there.

a real great listen!

I really enjoyed it! hearing his insight, perspective and advice was wonderful. I have such a deeper understanding and respect for one of my favorite film directors

inspiring

It was everything I wanted in a David Lynch book. Worth every minute of listening.

What a gift

Hearing David Lynch speak his words unveils a whole other layer to his ideas. You go there, you feel them. Beautiful.

Love to Listen Over and Over Again

I love David Lynch.
He’s the one that got me interested into Transcendental Meditation. Very interesting perspective and human being. Probably my 5th time listening to this.

Just… Lynch

David Lynch gives amazing insight into his creative process and the simple ‘non-processes’ that gave seed to many of his films.

Amazing insights, harmonious ideas

Possibly my favorite audio book experience. A meditation unto itself. Perfectly rendered by a master artist who need not render at all. The art happens all by itself. A classic for creative people, especially storytelling professionals.

Short & Sweet but Powerful

Loved hearing Davids take on the beauty and power of meditation and his approach to making art. Was peppered with stories from his career that make it interesting for people that may not be as interested in meditation. Lots of strong arguments for the power of meditation here.

Could/should listen to this over and over.

Great, short insight into the mind of a fantastic creative mind. Recommended for anyone in a creative profession, especially if you're interested in meditation.