I don't want to be known as the one who makes movies for older

Hear me, O seekers of truth and wisdom, for I speak of a timeless lesson about identity, legacy, and the struggle to define oneself in the face of expectation. In the world of art and creation, every artist must confront the forces that seek to define them, to place them within narrow boundaries. Yet the true artist, the one who dares to walk the path of creation with courage, understands that to be pigeonholed is to limit their own potential. Thus spoke the wise Nancy Meyers, a creator whose films have touched the hearts of many, especially those in the later stages of life: "I don't want to be known as the one who makes movies for older people." In these words lies a profound declaration of freedom and the desire to create without being confined to a singular audience.

To be known for one thing is both a blessing and a curse. The world often seeks to label those who rise to prominence, for labels make the unfamiliar familiar, the unknown understandable. But the artist, like a great river, cannot be confined to one channel. To be defined by the age of one's audience is to ignore the universal nature of art. Meyers understood this truth, for she knew that her craft, though loved by older generations, was not limited to their experiences. The stories she told—the universal themes of love, identity, and change—were meant to speak to all hearts, regardless of age.

Consider, O children of wisdom, the great William Shakespeare, who, though often seen as the voice of his time, never allowed himself to be confined by the expectations of his audience. His plays, beloved by both the nobility and the common folk, spoke to all walks of life. From the young and idealistic Romeo to the weary and reflective King Lear, Shakespeare’s characters transcended the boundaries of age, speaking to the universal human condition. He did not write for the youth alone or for the aged, but for the hearts of all who could hear his words. Meyers’ desire not to be known for only writing for older audiences reflects this same commitment to the universality of art—to speak not to a single age, but to the soul of humanity.

And so it is with every creator who seeks to leave their mark upon the world. The true artist creates not for one group, one age, or one time, but for the ever-changing tide of humanity. Like Meyers, who dared to challenge the label of being the maker of films for older people, all artists must resist the urge to define themselves by the audience that first accepts them. The path to greatness is paved by the willingness to embrace the diversity of life and to create for the future, not just the present. A work of art should not be a momentary reflection of one age but a timeless testament that speaks across generations.

Let us turn to the story of Claude Monet, whose Water Lilies were dismissed by many during his lifetime as nothing more than impressions that lacked substance. But Monet, in his unwavering commitment to his vision, did not allow himself to be defined by the tastes or expectations of his contemporaries. He painted not for critics, but for his own vision of the world. Over time, his works grew in relevance and timelessness, influencing generations long after his death. Like Monet, Meyers sought to transcend the boundaries imposed upon her by the world, aiming to create films that would resonate with people of all ages, not just those in the later years of their lives.

Therein lies the profound lesson of Meyers’ words: do not let others define your worth by narrow measures. As an artist, you must strive to create work that speaks not to a specific group or a fleeting moment, but to the universal spirit that resides in us all. Whether you are a filmmaker, a writer, or a sculptor, you must seek to capture something eternal in your work, something that transcends the passing fancies of the day. To limit yourself is to deny the power of your vision, to confine your potential to the expectations of others.

Therefore, O children of wisdom, let your creations be an offering to the ages. Like Nancy Meyers, seek to reach beyond labels and to create with a voice that speaks to every soul. Do not be content with being seen as one who creates only for a certain audience or for a certain time. Instead, let your art flow freely, unbounded by the limits of expectation. In doing so, you will find not only freedom, but greatness. Your work will transcend time, touching the hearts of those who come after you, as Shakespeare’s, Monet’s, and many other creators’ works have done before. Create for all humanity, and your legacy will endure for the ages.