An independent thinker concerned with the ultimate purposes of existence must necessarily lodge for a time in the dungeons of thought. And then to study and know them. Some remain there for life; but it seems, however, that the time comes when he must leave them and return to the previous environment, as the heroes always return from their journeys: transformed and with something to teach.
Tag: philosophy
Laughter Really Seems to Be the Superior
Laughter really seems to be the superior among all the ultimate manifestations of the spirit. Therefore, it is valid and even necessary that there be a conscious effort, in cases where it does not occur spontaneously, for it to erupt as a victory over more natural and immediate tendencies. Indignation and sadness are often justified, but can never represent the overcoming of the circumstances that triggered them. If they stimulate, that is the most they can do. Victory over any circumstance implies a detachment that allows one to look at them and laugh.
Originality Achieves Recognition More Quickly
In art and philosophy, originality achieves recognition more quickly than value. In philosophy, however, original ideas seem to guarantee longevity, and the more original they are, the more surely they guarantee it. The phenomenon is curious, because it occurs in spite of the value of the idea. This one, if original and even absurd, even if refuted a thousand times, always seems to deserve the generosity of a citation. In art, however, although originality makes noise, it invariably wears out with time. In art, a work only endures if, beyond originality, it retains something of value.
Change Can Be Better Understood When…
Change can be better understood when we think not of “change,” but of the death of one state for the birth of a new one. When something changes, what was ceases to be and gives way to something different, either better or worse. The previous state, however, becomes the past. Thus, it is wise to be cautious whenever one thinks of changing something that pleases or satisfies. To change something good is to destroy it, and the result of the change will not always be able to satisfy.