Arts, Loneliness, Choice of Life

In the huge exhibition hall of Art HK 08, finally I stood in front of a big painting by Francis Bacon.

The feature of his portrait works, is that you always see one single person in it, with strange colors of skin. The guide explained that it is because he was always alone and have skin problem, which reflect in his works.

I thought of many artists and writers, seemingly they all have something in common-loneliness, and a large number of them have physical or mental disease, or they died early, or lived a poor life when old.

I thought of another quote: “if you have nothing to write, then commit suicide! If you succeed, you don’t have to suffer anymore; if not, then you have something to write.”

The process of art creation is the fruit of blood and sweat, only can which endure the test of time

The art creation is a tough experience. A lot of people didn’t see the human who did the creations through those works while commending them. Most of them are lonely and helpless, however this kind of sensitive soul makes them unique, and to describe the world in their eyes from a special perspective. The distance between their imagination and reality always makes them sad, meanwhile most lack of interpersonal communicational skill and they feel stressed and disappointed time and time again. The tremendous sorrow and disappointment transform into infinite power, and gift them the inspiration of creation. If you don’t try to know the artist first, you cannot truly understand the spirit behind their works. That’s the real value of an art piece, which can never be copied by any distinct model.

Suddenly I had a light above my head.

Loads of people asked me why I always write something dark and pessimistic. Actually I am not always in a sad mood, but those moments only could I have the inspiration and desire to write. I cannot calm down while feeling happy, not even mention to think of anything related to life or philosophy.

But I realize now loneliness is a choice, rather than loneliness chooses you. You choice of being lonely is a surrender for reaching some of your goals. Except from some objective factors, your imagination and thoughts will directly affect the turnover of your path. And what will happen next, is what we call “fate” or “destiny”. Indeed we cannot control its development, but it happens on the direction coordinate you have chosen. It might be another story on the opposite direction.

Just like the movie Sliding Doors, two different choices, two different stories, you will never expect what you life is until the very last second.

I always think that I am independent, from some extent. I jumped out of a small and traditional Chinese town and trim my life neat and tidy. But independent people are somewhat lonely, because they don’t wanna rely on others but themselves. Not till recently did I discover knowing the right time to ask for help is a tactic, which will double your success. And the warmth among some group in an expat city, cannot be properly described but so heartfelt.

No man is an island.
The 512 Sichuan Earthquake is a profound proof.

Walking alone to walk faster, walk together to walk farther. If you cannot have a long-term company, get several short-term ones.