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The War of Art  By  cover art

The War of Art

By: Steven Pressfield
Narrated by: Steven Pressfield
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Publisher's summary

Think of The War of Art as tough love...for yourself.

Since 2002, The War of Art has inspired people around the world to defeat "resistance"; to recognize and knock down dream-blocking barriers and to silence the naysayers within us. Resistance kicks everyone's butt, and the desire to defeat it is equally as universal. The War of Art identifies the enemy that every one of us must face, outlines a battle plan to conquer this internal foe, then pinpoints just how to achieve the greatest success.

Though it was written for writers, it has been embraced by business entrepreneurs, actors, dancers, painters, photographers, filmmakers, military service members, and thousands of others around the world.

©2011 Black Irish Entertainment LLC (P)2019 Black Irish Entertainment LLC

Featured Article: 35+ Quotes About Hard Work to Keep You Motivated and Moving Forward


The things most worth doing require the most from us—it takes hard work to accomplish important tasks, achieve major goals, and realize your dreams. Commitment, sweat, exhaustion, frustration, and a willingness to fail are all necessary parts of taking on challenges. When you’re in the middle of a difficult project, there will be times when you’re tempted to simply give up. In such moments, look to these quotes about hard work to keep you going.

What listeners say about The War of Art

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    1 out of 5 stars

War Against Common Sense?

I tried reading the physical version of this book, but it read like a series of bullet points listed beneath a guiding topic. Listening to this book made it much easier.

But the stuff Pressfield says is really difficult to endorse. It starts off all right. Fight back against resistance. I agree. Resistance stops us from accomplishing so much. However, when he begins explaining how ADHD or anxiety disorders are not REAL--but instead the result of resistance and procrastination--I felt a bit uneasy. He cites no sources. He has no validation for these claims, but he presents them as facts which is extremely irresponsible. When he starts saying that cancer is cured by people who produce art...yeah, I checked out.

I gave the performance three stars. Pressfield reads this in an angry-ish and judgmental tone, and I think that's right in line with the tone of the text.

I'd say save yourself the time and money. You already know that procrastination hurts. Write your own list of motivational bullet points. Hey, maybe you can publish them someday.

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131 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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    2 out of 5 stars

Too much useless information

Good idea, but can be shared in like 20 minutes max, this book is too long and filled with air in my opinion.

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44 people found this helpful

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Filled with Dangerous Ideas

This book is filled with dangerous, harmful ideas, such as the thought that succumbing to "resistance" is the cause of cancer. Even ignoring that monumental flaw, this "motivational" book is severely lacking in points worth taking away - seek motivation elsewhere.

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40 people found this helpful

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Half of it is about praising God

Most arguments are about "the sacred", "the holy" and fighting the evil "resistance"...
there was one good chapter talking about a down to earth comparison between being Pro vs being Amateur.

At least the book was short so I didn't waste too much time.

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38 people found this helpful

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The concept of work vs. resistance is pure gold

The concept of work vs. resistance is pure gold. From a business perspective (creative production and delivery) it makes this book a must-read for any entrepreneur.

The exploration of the "muses" might appeal to purely artistic and creative types. Maybe not so much for a business person.

The author's passionate audible delivery made the listening truly enjoyable from start to finish.

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25 people found this helpful

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Show up!

It’s a book that everyone must read. Especially if you are an artist or an entrepreneur.
Presented in a very impactful manner.

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24 people found this helpful

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must read!

are you a painter that doesn't paint?
a writer who doesn't write?
this is your book.

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22 people found this helpful

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    2 out of 5 stars
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NOT ABOUT ART?!

Hmmmm, why have I seen and heard so many people go on about this book? It makes me genuinely wonder if there was an affiliate program associated with it at some stage? Firstly, this book is not about art or being an artist. It is about pursuing your "true calling" in part and also about literal Muses...…so weird. It gives absolutely zero information or ideas on how to actually pursue that calling, instead repeats over and over that you must follow your muse/do what you were born to do otherwise "resistance" will ruin you. He literally talks about "resistance" like it is a physical thing!!! I don't get it. IMHO this book is 100% fluff, no that's not true, maybe 80%. The message is kinda worth hearing but it takes less words that I have just typed to tell that message. Also this book is not about art or being an artist any more than it could be about being a dentist, but I guess the war of dentistry isn't as sellable

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17 people found this helpful

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Wow

I've listened to it three times and still pick up more info each time I listen

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15 people found this helpful

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Love this book!

A smooth read and entertaining one. Good way to know your true enemy. Definitely worth reading.

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11 people found this helpful