find your own meaning (in art)

I usually put more thought into these things but right now I just want to get thoughts out before I lose them

I've been in a quite unhappy state thinking about the nature of art. All I see when I look for art is products. Content. Made for money and mass appeal. Even in less popular works of art the intent is there. Be noticed. Make a living. I can't blame people for wanting to make a living and I'd be a massive hypocrite if I criticized anyone for attention seeking but I have been growing more cynical and unable to appreciate any form of art just knowing it wasn't made to be art it was made to be a product.

Today a song got stuck in my head. Fireflies by Owl City. A pop song with plenty of mass appeal that I'm sure made a lot of money. And I thought of my dad. It was one of very few songs that we both liked so it was a staple of any car ride. When my dad lost himself to dementia that song was pretty much the only thing that put some light back in his eyes.

The things that song makes me feel have nothing to do with how catchy it is how much money it made or even its lyrics. My experiences gave it meaning.  Thanks for reminding me what art is dad. I miss you.