Discoverers

 

On Page 102 of his book, The Passionate State of Mind, Eric Hoffer has one entry which I quote and then comment on:

 

 

Hoffer: “          180

 

The discovery and elaboration of new forms of expression whether in literature, art and music are often the work of the least talented. The search for a new form of expression is often an attempt to camouflage the fact that one has nothing new to express.”

 

My response: I am sure Hoffer is right here. It would seem that those that are misfits or those without talent are often the ones to discover new forms of expression because, for one thing, they are out there trying, and they seek meaning and structure to replace a shattered self, a shattered life.

 

This camouflaging behavior does not indicate to me that they lack talent, for I believe all are incredibly talented, some more so and some less so. To be novel or traditional is not a problem or an advantage, inherently, I believe. The more one self-actualizes, the more original, more profound, the more skilled and beautiful will be the products of one’s creativity, be one a traditional or avante garde expressive creator.

 

Hoffer: “However, once the new form is worked out, it is seized upon by the talented, and it is only then that the new manner begins to manifest force, beauty and originality.

 

It is often the failure who is a pioneer in new lands, new undertakings, and new forms of expression.”

 

My response: Yes, it is the misfits who loathe themselves and just cannot fit in, or do productive, respected work in the existing dispensation that serve as pioneers. In this capacity, they do perform a vital service: introducing needed new ideas and perspectives to humankind.

 

I think they are misfits not because they lack talent or are less talented, but because they have no self-esteem, with no sense of self-development as a maverizer, where with self-discipline, very hard, persistent work, and tight focusing, one can express oneself, in new ways, that makes one noteworthy as a creator.

 

Misfits that individuate can not only usher in new forms of expression, but they can do so beautifully, originally and profoundly, should be work hard enough.