Book Review: “Catching the Big Fish” by David Lynch

If you’re looking for an easy yet eye-opening read, this book is great. It’s a collection of very short essays on Transcendental Meditation, creative inspiration and anecdotes from critically acclaimed filmmaker David Lynch (Twin Peaks, Eraserhead, Blue Velvet).

“Negativity is like darkness. So what is darkness? You look at darkness, and you see that it’s really nothing: It’s the absence of something. You turn on the light, and darkness goes.” – David Lynch

Even if you’re not familiar with his work (or if you are familiar with it but don’t love it), the book offers great insight into one of the most creative people alive today. Few could argue that Lynch wouldn’t be invited to a seat at that table. His contemporaries certainly agree–some of his admirers include Stanley Kubrick (The Shining), The Coen Brothers (Fargo), Alexander Payne (Sideways, Nebraska), Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko) and JJ Abrams (LOST, Star Trek), Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight, Inception, Memento), and Martin Scorsese (Goodfellas).

Lynch has long been a proponent of Transcendental Meditation, and although I’ve never tried it, he makes a compelling yet not in-your-face argument to give it a try. Of course, practicers of “true” TM will tell you that you must go to a certified TM instructor, but thanks to the internet, you can easily research how to properly meditate at home, reaping all the benefits without the price tag and the hassle of going out.

You can’t deny the facts that meditation greatly enhances your body’s natural functions, increases circulation and mental clarity, and decreases stress. It seems win-win and it’s no wonder it helps in getting the creative juices flowing. So next time you’re suffering from writer’s block, a creative cramp, stress… whatever it is… give meditation a try. Many of the world’s foremost creatives, thinkers and over-achievers swear by it. You’d be in good company.

Check out the book on Amazon here: