Be Like Seinfeld

Will We Ever Be Original Again?

During tough financial times, the biggest burden falls on the arts. The cross between art and entertainment has always existed simply because, if an audience doesn't enjoy something, the concept will most likely never see fruition.

Although there are several exceptions, from cinema to novels, most large companies aren't interested in being edgy or even releasing new material. The fact is, even a book is viewed as a product in the end, and if a product doesn't sell, no one wants to produce it. If something doesn't fall into a current trend or an ideology picking up mainstream speed, many producers and publishers don't want to adopt the content out of the fear of a financial loss. When Seinfeld first came into light, it failed miserably. However, whether you personally enjoyed the show, it possess all the qualities many of us wish of all forms of art and entertainment. 

There's no reason to pretend Seinfeld was for everyone. Some people didn't like the New York centralism or care for the dry humor. As a matter of fact, when Seinfeld was first used in sample audiences, it was a complete disaster. Despite the fact that initial audiences despised the pilot and many producers were turning away from a show outside of a trend, Seinfeld's producer still decided to pick it up.

Most certainly it was a risk, but sometimes risks do pay off. Here's what he had to say:

Former NBC president Warren Littlefield provides us with some very reassuring advice. It is often tempting to give into mainstream trends - that is, writing a vampire drama because vampire dramas sell. 

Many artists are discouraged from what they see all around them. There's too much of the same. While sticking to market trends will definitely lead you to an immediate check, sometimes it's best to stick with what feels right. Your instincts will always lead you in the right direction. In my mind, it's a lot like sticking with your first answer on an exam question. 

There's no reason for the rehashing of the same generic art and entertainment over and over. You don't have to strive for complete originality. If you work to be yourself and produce what you believe in, the risk is likely to pay off. Break away from the status quo if it means doing what you love, and keep believing in it. 

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