Intolerance in the Pursuit of Artistic Integrity
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Chapter 1: The Value of Intolerance in Art
In my experience within a community of progressive liberals, tolerance is often regarded as a near-sacred virtue, depending on one's interpretation of a higher power. Personally, I find this concept challenging, though not in the same way as those with opposing views might.
Liberals—an umbrella term I use to describe the progressive faction of the Democratic Party—take pride in their acceptance of diverse backgrounds. This inclusivity is almost a requirement for being part of their collective. Yet, alongside this acceptance lies a counter-demand: an intolerance for those who themselves exhibit intolerance. This dichotomy isn't as complex as it may appear and likely stems from the limitations of language rather than any inherent contradictions in the argument.
Indeed, many liberals are open-minded towards people who differ from them and allow for a rich tapestry of ethnicities, faiths, sexual orientations, and cultural practices. Their brand of tolerance generally operates on a live-and-let-live basis, provided that no harm comes to others. However, this isn't the core of what I wish to discuss.
What’s a Curmudgeon to Do?
I've been labeled an old soul for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was always drawn to older individuals who seemed to possess a clearer understanding of the world than my peers. Now, as I age, I find myself embracing that label, though it doesn't entirely clarify my irritable disposition or my discontent with the state of humanity.
I suspect my curmudgeonly attitude arises from a romantic’s idealism clashing with a cynic’s pragmatism. My lofty expectations lead to a continuous cycle of disappointment. This might be a generous self-assessment; perhaps I'm simply a grumpy old man who feels that many aspects of life fall short of my standards.
For now, I choose to believe that I am a kind-hearted individual who wishes for a bit more intelligence and wit from my fellow humans, while also maintaining an optimistic outlook amid an increasingly chaotic world.
The Weight of Creative Obligation
I once viewed my intolerance as a major flaw in my character. However, with age, I've come to understand that despite my empathy and desire to connect, my primary focus is on my work. I need space for solitude and introspection, away from the distractions of social engagements.
Recently, I watched a video featuring David Sedaris discussing the life of a writer. He mentioned that he often faced criticism for not being more sociable or attending events, yet he adheres to a routine that facilitates his productivity. This sentiment resonates with many artists across various fields, who can be described as irritable, self-absorbed, or simply difficult to please. Yet, most of them likely don’t care about others' opinions; they have their own work to prioritize.
For artists, the work must always take precedence. Whether in mathematics, science, painting, music, or writing, if the work isn’t the main focus, it’s hardly worth pursuing. We aim for excellence, and achieving that often requires relentless dedication and sacrifice. Without prioritizing the work, nothing of value will emerge.
Navigating Life's Distractions
In an episode of "Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee" featuring Alec Baldwin, he shared how his bucket list has diminished in size but has become more pressing. The urgency resonates with me—I have limited time and energy, necessitating a focus on what truly matters. Everything else feels like a distraction, causing me to lack patience for anything that doesn’t contribute to my goals.
In the film "The Banshees of Inisherin," the character Colm, a musician on a remote Irish island, decides to end his friendship with Pádraic because he finds Pádraic's conversation tedious. Colm expresses a profound sense of time slipping away, prioritizing thought and creativity over trivial discussions.
The conversation encapsulates my feelings. I simply cannot afford to spend valuable time on irrelevant chatter or mundane topics. I believe this perspective is reasonable.
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In this brief video, "The Intolerance of Tolerance," the complexities of tolerance and its implications are explored.
This video, "Paradox of Tolerance: To Tolerate or Not to Tolerate?" delves into the philosophical debates surrounding the limits of tolerance in democratic societies.