‘You’re Always On, and You’re Always Lively’: Young People and Creative Work

Drawing on a 5 year research project, this chapters looks at the imaginary of the creative economy and the role it plays in the lives of young aspirant creatives. Based on interviews in very different parts of the UK—from the hyper-gentrified inner city to rural areas and a de-industrialised town—the chapter looks at how places shapes understanding of what is possible in terms of creative work and at how it intersects with social class in shaping aspiration