The chapter discusses the problems that arise when one tries to make art, and how it gets done. I found most curious two statements: art as an expression of personal identity is a modern construct, and the romanticism of the period of an artist’s life when no one cares about their art is wrong.
The authors point out that art existed before as a part of a bigger religious picture, and even older still is art made by cavemen who didn’t think much of themselves at all (so the authors postulate).
Regarding the romanticism of the hard phase of an artists life, the authors explain that this phase is a required learning phase where the person learn how to create their best work. All people must make mistakes along the way. No one has any reason to be moved by the artist’s artwork, and they’re not missing any insight that the artist has seen from afar. The art just isn’t there yet.
I think the chapter tries to negate some of the fear around making art, and tries to make the reader reflect on the humble nature of artwork. It is not an esoteric gift bestowed by god on a chosen few.