I don't particularly dislike any kind of person that might be

"I don't particularly dislike any kind of person that might be reading my stuff. They like it and that's cool, but I don't do the work for any kind of group in particular, except for hobos, who just plain kick ass and light up my life." These words from Jhonen Vasquez, a creator of the darkly humorous and sardonic comic series Johnny the Homicidal Maniac, reveal a powerful philosophy about creativity, audience, and personal authenticity. In this statement, Vasquez makes it clear that he does not craft his art with any group or demographic in mind. Rather, he does so for the joy of creation itself, and, in his words, for the "hobos"—those who live outside the mainstream, who embrace life in all its chaos, and who, in their freedom, provide him with the inspiration and energy he seeks. Vasquez’s focus on the hobo represents the artist’s desire to create for the individual, for those who see the world not as it “should” be, but as it is.

The concept of creating for one’s own self and not for a specific group resonates deeply with the teachings of the ancients. Consider the Greek philosophers, whose greatest works were often done not for immediate praise or recognition but for the purpose of truth-seeking. Socrates famously stated that “the unexamined life is not worth living,” implying that true work is done not for external validation, but for inner exploration and authentic expression. Similarly, Vasquez’s decision to write not for any specific group but rather for himself—reflecting his inner worldview and his appreciation for the marginalized—reminds us that the truest art often arises from the individual’s need to express their own truth.

The inclusion of the hobo as a central figure in Vasquez’s art points to the outsiders, those who are not tied to societal expectations or conventions. In ancient cultures, outsiders like philosophers or wandering mystics were often seen as both outsiders and sages. The Buddha, in his journey of enlightenment, wandered far from the cities, embracing a life of simplicity and freedom from societal constraints. In the same way, the hobo in Vasquez’s quote represents a rebellion against the norms of the structured world, a spirit of freedom that resonates deeply with the artist’s own drive to create without the pressure of pleasing the mainstream.

The historical figure of Diogenes provides an excellent example of this outsider wisdom. Diogenes, one of the founders of Cynicism, lived in extreme simplicity and rejected the conventions of society. He was famous for living in a barrel and for his scorn of materialism, seeking enlightenment through self-sufficiency and honesty. Much like the hobo in Vasquez’s mind, Diogenes embraced a life of freedom from societal expectations. He showed that the pursuit of truth and self-expression is not bound by wealth, status, or social position. He didn’t write for the masses or for approval—he lived and acted in a way that was a reflection of his own philosophy, a personal creation of self in the world.

In this way, Vasquez’s art speaks to the same individualism that the ancient mystics and philosophers espoused. By choosing to create not for the mainstream, but for the outsider, Vasquez is rejecting the idea that art must conform to popular tastes. This echoes the wisdom of Leonardo da Vinci, who, despite his fame, created works that were deeply personal and often left uncompleted. Da Vinci did not conform to the expectations of his time; he followed his own curiosity and creative drive. His works, though some were never finished, remain testaments to the freedom that comes when an artist creates from the heart, rather than for the approval of others.

The key lesson we can draw from Vasquez’s words is the importance of authenticity in our own lives and in our creative endeavors. It is too easy to succumb to the pressures of society, to conform to what is popular or acceptable. But true fulfillment comes from embracing our individuality, from doing what we love for the sake of the work itself, not for external validation. Like Vasquez, who creates for the hobos, we must find joy and purpose in the work that speaks to our inner selves. Creating for ourselves, rather than for others, is the path to true artistic freedom and personal happiness.

In our own journeys, let us take inspiration from the outcasts, the wanderers, and the individuals who refuse to be confined by the norms of society. Let us create with the pure intention of self-expression, not seeking to please or conform, but to tell our own stories, in our own way. Whether through art, writing, or any form of creation, we must celebrate the freedom that comes with embracing our true selves. In doing so, we will create not only for ourselves but for the world—a world that often needs the boldness and truth of those who live outside the mainstream. Like Vasquez’s hobo, let us light up the world with our authenticity.