Brakhage's article opens with an extremely rudimentary explanation of how camera-less filmmaking begins. He visually describes every step that a novice filmmaker will take, even their first handling of unexposed film. His attitude throughout the article reveals a genuine love not only for film, but for the journey new filmmakers take in finding their own ways to create. This kind of passion is quite encouraging to someone who might disregard experimental film (camera-less in particular) as nothing more than a random result of arts and crafts. Unlike professional productions, what Brakhage talks about is the enjoyment of filmmaking in both viewing and creation.
As he begins to describe how a splice is made he expresses an extreme sense of wonder and almost nostalgia to beginning filmmakers. His close attention to detail and careful warnings of the different pitfalls of splicing demand the attention of only the most dedicated filmmakers. Brakhage seems to take for granted that everyone will instantly fall in love with film the same way he has.
Reading through the Brakhage article makes me realize some of what separates those who simply create and those who are remembered for having changed the way in which people create. A passion deeper than having a cool sounding major in college, or a fun job afterwards, or maybe even something that just seemed like less work than other professions. Artists understand their medium, from the technical ways in which their art comes about, to the meaning of the overall aesthetic that results. Brakhage not only seems to have an intimate knowledge of every aspect of his craft, but also a deep desire to create a particular mood or emotion. This exposure to such a genuine enthusiasm for film has encouraged me to continue my own journey in learning more and more about filmmaking.
