American guitarist John Abercrombie, who is well-known for his jazz and free jazz compositions, frequently discusses the unpredictability of music making. Abercrombie, like many jazz musicians, views playing as a journey in which one is always looking for something elusive, like a profound melody, a feeling, or a mood.

On a sunny day, picture yourself attempting to capture a passing shadow; occasionally it is in your hand, and other times it eludes your grasp. Every note in jazz is a guess or an attempt to capture that fleeting essence, and this search takes place in real time. According to Abercrombie, he improvises by following a line of thought. It's similar to installing rail tracks while a train is in motion; you can't see what's coming, but you rely on your gut and the current of thought to lead you.

Abercrombie highlights how music is inherently flawed, particularly when it is improvised. Jazz thrives on spontaneity and human error, in contrast to composed pieces where musicians strive for accuracy and perfection. Every musician brings a different set of emotions and experiences to the stage, which makes every performance special and imperfectly ideal.

Many people who make art or pursue any other creative endeavor where inspiration strikes at random times can relate to this idea. Achieving the ideal result is only one aspect of beauty; another is appreciating the process itself, including the experimentation, failure, and success that result from accepting improvisation and uncertainty.