Interaction


54

Interaction.


We come to the stage in the Tao Te Ching where Lao Tzu more than anywhere else speaks of the relationships we have with others. What he says is directed towards all, but what he says for others will be equally true for those involved in the creative arts.

As we have considered elsewhere it is very easy for the artist to become an isolated being spending much time alone with their thoughts and in the production of their artworks. It is, therefore, a simple step to give a little thought about our interactions with others. Many artists can go from day to day interacting with few if any. Some will, of course, spend time among fellow artists but the topics of discussion and concern may hardly ever be other than their craft.

Lao Tzu advises that if we are to develop, and this is as true for the artist as for any other. We have to give thought to the world around us.

It is wise therefore for the artist to give thought to the ideas contained in this chapter of his great work, Tao Te Ching.

He advises that for anyone to be a full and worthwhile being there are five areas we need to never neglect.

Rather than concentrate all our actions on our art, whatever it may be, we need also to cultivate goodness in our personal lives. We have to cultivate this same goodness within our family. We must then look beyond our immediate surrounds to our communities or villages and here make a contribution to its wellbeing. In this way, goodness will be shared.

We are then encouraged to look further beyond ourselves to our country. How easily the creative person can isolate themselves from the things that affect the lives of all.  Lao Tzu invokes taking part in the life of the nation, being interested in the things that affect the lives of others, playing our part in the life of the country if it is only to consider the actions of leaders as we cast a vote.

We are finally instructed to play our part in all things seeking to spread goodness and concern wherever we can.

It is so easy for the creative person to isolate themselves from the community at large but Lao Tzu pleads for positive interaction in all things. It is in such action that our skills and insights will develop.


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