My apologies for not posting this yesterday. I take full accountability for missing my deliverable and not sharing this on Saturday, February 7. I spent the day making several collages in between weekend activities, and I actually fell asleep while attempting to write Saturday’s blog. There was never an intention to write about tardiness — but somehow, it became fitting. Timelines can be taboo topics: frequently whispered about, yet rarely addressed directly.
It’s probably important to start by looking at cultural norms around timeliness. Personally, I dislike being late. I prefer to arrive a little early and be prepared. If I know I’ll be running behind, I make it a point to let people know — and if I can’t make it at all, I communicate that, too.
In some cultures, being late is considered deeply disrespectful, a breach of etiquette that reflects poorly on one’s character. Social norms in such places often expect guests to arrive 15–30 minutes early. In other societies or subcultures, however, it’s almost expected that people will show up late — even after an event has begun (where do they do that at!?!).
We’ve all had that colleague who’s perpetually late. Some entertainers have even lost fans for showing up hours after their concert’s scheduled start time. The truth is, tardiness isn’t uncommon, and it often happens for reasons beyond our control — life happens, emergencies happen.
And then there’s art. Art can make you late. When an artist enters a creative flow state, time disappears. Ideas and inspiration move freely and effortlessly, and it’s hard to step away. My intention was to make one collage in between my son’s basketball games and household chores — but one became seven or eight before I knew it.
Thousands of artists have probably missed events, deadlines, or “the party” because they were caught in that creative groove. When art calls, it can be impossible to resist. So yes, being late may be taboo — but let’s show a little grace to the artists who lose track of time while creating beauty.
Collage by Heather Polk, “What is Taboo? 2.7.2026”, 2026, torn magazine pages on watercolor paper, 8 in x 8 in
