"Finishing the Hat" is a song from the musical "Sunday in the Park with George" by Stephen Sondheim, which tells the story of artist George Seurat and his struggles to balance his art with his personal life. The song is sung by the character George as he reflects on his creative process and the sacrifices he must make to pursue his art. He talks about the woman who left him and how he thought she understood his life as an artist, but ultimately could not handle it. The title "Finishing the Hat" refers to the actual act of completing a painting, but also represents the idea of achieving artistic fulfillment and closure. George muses about the intense focus required to create something new and the sense of isolation that comes with it. He also reflects on the idea that there is always a part of him that remains dedicated to his art, even when he loses people in his personal life. The song explores the complex emotions and sacrifices that artists must make in order to pursue their passions to the fullest. Overall, "Finishing the Hat" captures the struggles and rewards of artistic creation, and the ways in which it can impact and complicate one's personal life. Josh Groban's version of the song is a stirring rendition of this powerful musical number.
