Advice from Werner Herzog

I came across this piece a few years ago about Werner Herzog. He’s an incredible director, with an eye for the uncommon and uncanny. His career doesn’t follow any kind of natural progression. He doesn’t stick to one genre. Documentary, fiction, whatever. He’s an actor too. He’s a different kind of guy. A SERIOUS guy. Google him, and look at his different projects. Look at his picture. See what I mean?

Anyway, the following is a list he came up with about life advice. Short, not so sweet, definitely to the point.

I read it often. I think it’s genius.

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1. Always take the initiative.

2. There is nothing wrong with spending a night in jail if it means getting the shot you need.

3. Send out all your dogs and one might return with prey.

4. Never wallow in your troubles; despair must be kept private and brief.

5. Learn to live with your mistakes.

6. Expand your knowledge and understanding of music and literature, old and modern.

7. That roll of unexposed celluloid you have in your hand might be the last in existence, so do something impressive with it.

8. There is never an excuse not to finish a film.

9. Carry bolt cutters everywhere.

10. Thwart institutional cowardice.

11. Ask for forgiveness, not permission.

12. Take your fate into your own hands.

13. Learn to read the inner essence of a landscape.

14. Ignite the fire within and explore unknown territory.

15. Walk straight ahead, never detour.

16. Maneuver and mislead, but always deliver.

17. Don't be fearful of rejection.

18. Develop your own voice.

19. Day one is the point of no return.

20. A badge of honor is to fail a film theory class.

21. Chance is the lifeblood of cinema.

22. Guerrilla tactics are best.

23. Take revenge if need be.

24. Get used to the bear behind you.