A thoroughly enjoyable read and great exploration of an important aspect of human experience. While we are definitely social animals, the drive for solitude seems almost counterintuitive. Some other adjacent practices worth considering: float tanks, dark retreats and dopamine detoxes.
Cultivating natural idleness. I really like that idea. The fact that Michelangelo took year-long pauses while working on the David is a very inspiring piece of trivia, and the quote by Camus is new to me and exceptionally evocative. “Idleness is fatal only to the mediocre” I don't, however, have the same experience with writing being a solitary non-conversation. I find it a very alive process actually, very similar to the way you describe painting or music. Once a few words are down there is an exchange that starts, a dance of two moving energies, me and a creative spark that I experience as exceptionally good company. I always appreciate your thoughtful articles.
"I like being alone, it’s my favorite way of spending time. Maybe that’s why I like writing so much. Most of all, though, I like solitude because I can be idle."
This essay resonated SO much! Thank you for sharing.
Love this reflection! it seems like that no committee has produced great writing, with the exceptions being (1) Septuagint Bible; and (2) Bourbaki textbooks. So my guess is that solitude is at least a necessary condition for great writing.
“Idleness is fatal only to the mediocre.”
Wow. Yet another wonderful read from start to finish, Silvio. You always seem to be saying the thing I need to hear most!
A thoroughly enjoyable read and great exploration of an important aspect of human experience. While we are definitely social animals, the drive for solitude seems almost counterintuitive. Some other adjacent practices worth considering: float tanks, dark retreats and dopamine detoxes.
This article gives me peace and acceptance to spend time with myself, which I've always loved but, as you mentioned, it's not well looked upon.
Also, you convinced me to start East of Eden, which has been on my last for too long.
And finally, what a great image at the beginning!
Cultivating natural idleness. I really like that idea. The fact that Michelangelo took year-long pauses while working on the David is a very inspiring piece of trivia, and the quote by Camus is new to me and exceptionally evocative. “Idleness is fatal only to the mediocre” I don't, however, have the same experience with writing being a solitary non-conversation. I find it a very alive process actually, very similar to the way you describe painting or music. Once a few words are down there is an exchange that starts, a dance of two moving energies, me and a creative spark that I experience as exceptionally good company. I always appreciate your thoughtful articles.
"I like being alone, it’s my favorite way of spending time. Maybe that’s why I like writing so much. Most of all, though, I like solitude because I can be idle."
This essay resonated SO much! Thank you for sharing.
Love this reflection! it seems like that no committee has produced great writing, with the exceptions being (1) Septuagint Bible; and (2) Bourbaki textbooks. So my guess is that solitude is at least a necessary condition for great writing.