In a recent and intriguing conversation with EMP, the legendary frontman of Iron Maiden, Bruce Dickinson, delved into the unconventional sources that ignited his creative flame, surprising many by revealing that graveyards play a pivotal role in this process. Dickinson shared insights into the peculiar moments when inspiration strikes and the challenge of balancing creative fervor with the demands of everyday life.
Acknowledging the idiosyncrasies of creative minds, Dickinson highlighted the importance of recognizing when inspiration hits and being willing to set aside societal norms for those transcendent moments. He explained, “If you’re creative, then you just have to be aware of when creativity may strike and be prepared to abandon all those ordinary things that everybody else thinks are important for that special moment.”
For Dickinson, these flashes of creativity often occur at unexpected times, such as when driving or sitting on trains. Despite the inconvenience, he emphasized the urgency to capture these moments, even if it means resisting the pull of immediate distractions. Dickinson shared, “You want to pull over and write something immediately, and often you can’t. Or sitting on trains, strangely enough. But then somebody starts making a noise and distracting you, and you just get very inconvenient.”
In a surprising twist, Dickinson revealed that he occasionally seeks solace and inspiration by taking solitary strolls in graveyards. Explaining his preference for solitude in a crowded space, he shared, “I like to be kind of lonely in a crowded room sometimes when I create. Sometimes I go off and just take a wander around the graveyard. I find that cheers me up.”
In a separate revelation about his musical influences, Dickinson strays from the expected metal roots, expressing admiration for the early work of Robert Plant. Reflecting on the primal and unfiltered energy of Led Zeppelin’s performances on Danish TV, Dickinson pointed to Plant’s early contributions as a profound source of inspiration.
The multifaceted nature of Dickinson’s creative process, from graveyard wanderings to the raw essence of early rock performances, offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a musical icon who finds inspiration in the most unexpected places. The interview not only showcases Dickinson’s unique approach to creativity but also underscores the unconventional paths that lead to artistic brilliance.
