Inspiration

I often find myself examining what I draw on for inspiration. I feel as if I need to give at least mental credit to the things which have driven me to create and be creative. What is it that makes something have this kind of influence on us? Did the author intend for it to have that kind of impact on us, or is it a secondary benefit of it? Can authors fully control that inspiration in any way, or is it completely individual to the person experiencing it? These question drive me to find what it is that inspires me and what it takes to have that kind of effect on others. What kind of things inspire you, and can you pinpoint what it is that moves you so? Food for thought...