By subscribing to Inspiring Quotes you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
In this line from an 1884 letter to his brother Theo, Vincent van Gogh expresses the necessity of action. He suggests that in order to begin — whether it be a fresh painting, a new goal, or a sudden challenge — we must overcome our fear and hesitation, and simply do. “Many painters are afraid of the blank canvas,” the artist wrote, “but the blank canvas is afraid of the truly passionate painter who dares — and who has once broken the spell of ‘you can’t.’”

17 Quotes To Help You Embrace Imperfection

Inspiring Snippets From Abraham Lincoln’s Most Memorable Speeches

12 Quotes About Making Big Changes Later in Life

12 of the All-Time Greatest Zingers

Quotes From 11 Movies Guaranteed To Make You Feel Good

These “Monty Python” Quotes Are the True “Holy Grail”

Quotes To Help You Stay Young and Spry Forever

12 Quotes for When You’re Feeling Overstimulated

9 Evidence-Based Principles for Living a Longer Life, With Quotes

15 Quotes for Every Meal of the Day

14 Beautifully Poetic Quotes From William Blake