When we engage with art, it's natural to seek a personal connection, to find a reflection of ourselves within the narrative. However, this tendency, while understandable, can limit our appreciation of the broader themes and universal truths that art often strives to convey. This is a thought that crossed my mind while watching Netflix's adaptation of William Golding's 'Lord of the Flies'.
The show, an ambitious visual spectacle, left me with a peculiar dilemma. It wasn't the adaptation itself that troubled me; rather, it was my own reaction to it. I found myself drawn to Piggy, the bespectacled, brainy character who represents civilization and reason amidst the chaos. My affinity for Piggy, a character I could relate to on a personal level, sparked a deeper reflection on the nature of literary engagement.
As someone who has taught writing at the high school and undergraduate levels, I've witnessed a pattern of 'literary narcissism' among students. They tend to connect with fiction only when they see themselves mirrored in it. This phenomenon, I believe, is deeply ingrained in our educational system and publishing industry, which often prioritizes narratives centered around young protagonists.
While representation is crucial, especially for marginalized communities, there's a risk of becoming overly self-focused in our literary pursuits. It concerns me that many adults, influenced by this self-centered approach, evaluate art based on its relevance to their personal experiences, potentially missing out on the universality that art can offer.
Art, in its truest form, aims to transcend individual circumstances and connect us through shared human experiences. It's a door to new perspectives, a window to different worlds, and a mirror to reflect on our common humanity. Yet, if we only seek reflections of ourselves, we might miss the opportunity to step through that door, look out that window, or see beyond our own reflection.
This realization hit me hard, especially when I stumbled upon a clip of Fran Lebowitz's interview with Toni Morrison. Lebowitz's insightful comment about people being taught to see books as mirrors rather than doors or windows struck a chord. It made me realize the importance of encouraging a more open-minded approach to art, one that embraces diversity and universality.
In a world where personal relevance often dictates our engagement with art, it's crucial to remember that art's power lies in its ability to connect us, to offer new perspectives, and to challenge our preconceptions. So, the next time you pick up a book or watch a show, try to see beyond yourself. Embrace the universality of the human experience, and you might just discover a whole new world of art appreciation.
