/dissonance – lack of agreement; an instance of such inconsistency or disagreement./
The human essence seemingly yearns for harmony. It seeks patterns, coherence, and a sense of internal consistency. Yet, as Murphy’s Law suggests, life often throws a discordant note into the melody – dissonance. The lack of agreement or internal inconsistency manifests in various forms – conflicting beliefs, unfulfilled desires, and the clash between societal expectations and personal aspirations.
Consider the episode of The Twilight Zone titled “The Obsolete Man.” Romney Wordsworth, a librarian in a dystopian future, is condemned to death for obsolescence – his profession was deemed unnecessary. The dissonance between his self-worth and the state’s definition of his value creates a profound internal conflict. Wordsworth clings fiercely to his outdated role, highlighting the fear and paralysis that dissonance can evoke when it threatens one’s sense of identity and purpose.
Similar anxieties permeate the anime series Psycho-Pass. Here, the dissonance between societal expectations for conformity and the natural expression of human emotions creates a constant tension. Dissonance, however, may not be inherently negative. Confucius, emphasized the importance of “zheng” (正), meaning “rectitude” or “correctness” [1]. However, he also acknowledged the role of “wei” (危), meaning “danger” or “crisis” [2]. Dissonance can act as a “wei,” a catalyst for self-reflection and reevaluation of one’s beliefs and actions. It can push an individual to confront internal inconsistencies and forge a more authentic path.
For example: The dissonance between a comfortable yet unfulfilling career and a yearning for creative expression can spark a career change. The conflict between societal expectations of marriage and a desire for personal freedom can lead to a redefinition of societal norms. Dissonance, in these cases, can become a springboard for growth and impactful change. Of course, these examples are as of now, theoretical, until further reading.
The Korean philosopher Han Byung-Chul, in his book The Disappearance of Rituals, argues that the constant pursuit of efficiency and optimization in modern society leads to a sense of “noise” – a disruption of the natural rhythms of life [3]. This noise can manifest as dissonance within the individual, creating a sense of unease and disorientation. However, Han also suggests that this noise can be a wake-up call, prompting individuals to question the dominant social structures and seek alternative ways of living. Dissonance, in this light, becomes an invitation to carve out spaces for contemplation and rediscover a sense of meaning in a fast-paced world.
The impermanence of all things casts a long shadow on the human narrative. Everything humans know and cherish – relationships, careers, even their own bodies – is subject to decay and ultimately, an end. This dissonance between their inherent desire for permanence and the reality of impermanence can be a source of profound paralysis.
Yet, acknowledging the finitude of life may also be a liberating force. The awareness of time’s limit may push individuals to prioritize what truly matters to them, to shed societal expectations that no longer serve them, and to embrace the limited moments that they have.
The human dance with dissonance is a complex one. It can be a paralyzing force, breeding fear and insecurity. Yet, it may also be a catalyst for growth, prompting self-reflection and change. Maybe by acknowledging and accepting that everything inevitably ends, humans can pave their way to clarity.
at the end of the day, it may also be worth noting that dissonance is subjective to those who are truly listening.
who truly listens.
Citations:
[1] Confucius, Analects, translated by Arthur Waley, (Penguin Classics, 1993).
[2] Han Byung-Chul, The Disappearance of Rituals, translated by Erik Butler (Bloomsbury Academic, 2018).
Credits:
First Form Cover Art Commissioned from Zomtendo