When I was serving at a restaurant in Hudson Yards, a lady said to me, “I hope you don’t mind this, but what’s your deal? I’m trying to figure you out.”

I told her I wrote music. She replied, “I knew it. You don’t belong here.”

Some friends and I went to a small music festival this past Sunday. I was waiting to retrieve my coat from coat check when an artist that had just performed came up to me saying, “It’s good to see another artist.” An interaction that lasted no more than two minutes, we spoke about the industry. I put my coat on and wished him luck.

This recognition of my artistry is validating to experience, undoubtedly, and especially in the midst of the, uh, existential panic that can come with living outside of the lines.

But it’s not like an artist is more radiant than any other. We’re all searching for those that are similar to us.

Read on, and share your story, through An Artist’s Blog on Substack.