By Adela Toplean | January 8, 2008 - 9:27 am - Posted in life 'n art
We underestimate ourselves. We think we can’t understand how, for instance, a theoretical system works, we think we don’t get the ambivalent matters, we think we shouldn’t bother with Bach, Joyce, Llosa or Laurie Anderson, we dismiss a seemingly complex explanation by calling it “studied”, we only answer the simple questions that don’t question any of the questionable matters inside or around us.On the other hand, we overestimate our capacity of producing and receiving simplicity. It should be obvious that the clear stark things – starting with a physics formula and ending with a 3-chord-hit – have to do with the human potency of raising above the seeming intricacy of things. Simplicity is about far-sightedness and not about the cult of surface, it’s about wisdom and not about those quotidian mental tricks that make us look ridiculously self-contented while often bordering on imbecility.
…because simplicity is by all means a luxury, while complication is a daily must.
…because simplicity is by all means a luxury, while complication is a daily must.
PS: New canvas with a Van Gogh-feeling: “The Water and the Sleep”.
PS2: Regina Spektor, as I often wrote it myself, is one of the most consistent examples of rigorous, yet charming complexity. But Lefsetz always says it better. Scroll down till you’ll see his review to Regina’s Begin to Hope.
…and yes, the flu got me eventually.
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Oh SO SO SO true “simplicity = a luxury, complication = a daily must”.
Very subtle. Have a great year Adela!
A Dutch “fan”,
T.
The same to you, Tony!
And thank you again for taking the time to read my blog. I’m honored.
No, I am the honored one.
People never write in their blogs such fresh and original texts, they just tell you what they do and what they eat or simply copy articles that they have previously done for other purposes. Your blog has a standalone value. Not to mention the paintings. The artists usually show their paintings to the world and that’s it, but we get essays and art at the same time.
I wanted to open a blog myself but then I’ve realized I can’t, my job as a journalist is demanding and I know I can’t keep an original blog running. So…I am just very satisfied with coming here
when are you coming to Stockholm?
vad?
ja, när kommer du tillbaka?
Nice new site! Keep on doing the good job!
PS: and I forgot to say that your blog is very homey and inviting in its appearance not only in the content. I got all my colleagues reading it
thank you all, will answer more when I’ll get better. the flu won’t let me sit for too long these days
I saw Regina live and I loved her instantly
what do you prefer to drink? (just in case we’d meet again in Sthlm
and by the way, get well soon!!
Dear Ade, your flu seems to be serious. Hold on!