Here's the longish setup: 

I was driving home today from Uncle Hugo's bookstore (www.unclehugo.com) having just gotten a freshly signed copy of "Captain Vorpatril's Alliance" by Lois McMaster Bujold (which I have been looking forward to for quite a while now).  On the radio was The Splendid Table.  At one point the question was asked "Why do people so enjoy watching people cook?"  I think the answer that was given had to do with how universal food is and therefore people can relate to what they are seeing, and imagining how the result will taste.

My answer is different.  I think it is because creation is at the heart of cooking (and so many other things) and at its essence, creation is still magic which can leave people in awe.

I think it's part of the reason why movies like "Amadeus" are so powerful.  It is not just a film about a successful, creative person who is confronted with someone better.  It is the awe that Mozart generates in the scene where he is first introduced to the Emperor and improvises on the piano, or when Salieri is looking at the manuscript and "it was like he was taking dictation".

It is why "Making Of" documentaries and commentaries are included on most DVDs.  People want to see and, if possible, understand how something they appreciate was created.

It is probably why "My Name is Asher Lev" (by Chaim Potok) is my favorite book.

And, utlimately, I think creation (or, if you prefer, creativity) is why I love photography.  I've never been able to draw well or feel comfortable playing music, but I can certainly make (what I feel are) good photos.  When shooting is at its best, I can look at the world and feel inspired by all the different objects and scenes around me.  I can visualize and image and create a photo that reflects this vision.

And that is a GREAT feeling!

This image was taken in Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic just before dawn.  The photographer contemplates the castle in front of him and ponders the best way to capture the scene.