" As artists, we are so not in control most of the time of the content or the narrative of our characters, and sometimes writing takes a turn and it’s not something we necessarily have control over. It’s just a lot of random dumb luck, so when things click, you’ve just got to enjoy it. "
- Mike Colter

In this quote, Mike Colter expresses his view that as an artist, one often feels like they have limited control over the creative process. He suggests that while artists may have a vision or an idea in mind when starting to work on a project, sometimes the story or content evolves unexpectedly and beyond their initial intentions. This can happen due to unforeseen influences or random circumstances.

Beyond its surface meaning, Colter's quote also highlights the unpredictable nature of creativity and the importance of embracing serendipity in artistic pursuits. When artists find themselves pushed out of their comfort zones by chance occurrences or unanticipated twists in their work, they should recognize these moments as opportunities for growth and discovery rather than obstacles. This sentiment underscores the idea that successful art often emerges from a place where rigid control gives way to fluid exploration and openness to new ideas. By embracing this unpredictability, artists can tap into deeper layers of creativity and produce works that resonate more profoundly with audiences.

Mike Colter is an American actor best known for his role as Luke Cage in both the Netflix series "Luke Cage" and Marvel's "Defenders." Beyond acting, he has a background in theatre and also contributes to screenwriting. His experiences span across different aspects of the entertainment industry, making him well-versed in various creative challenges faced by artists working on diverse projects.