The examination of tension and pretension within the context of human experience reveals insights into agency, ownership, and the perceived need for control in an inherently uncertain reality.
Friedrich Nietzsche, through his concept of “eternal recurrence,” posited that life, with all its joys and sorrows, is destined to repeat endlessly. This cyclical nature undermines any notion of linear progress or meaningful accumulation.1 Jean-Paul Sartre, in his exploration of human consciousness, argued that individuals often attempt to evade the inherent freedom and responsibility of existence by adopting inauthentic roles and facades. This “pretension,” as he saw it, is a desperate attempt to escape the anxiety of confronting one’s true, contingent self.2
The perceived need to control or “prepare” for life’s inevitable tensions stems from a fundamental misapprehension of our place within the cosmos. The past, a seemingly immutable record of events, demonstrates a consistent pattern of unpredictability and flux. Human history, akin to the flow of a river, is characterized by constant change, with unforeseen events continually altering the course. This observation aligns with the principles of impermanence found in Eastern traditions, which emphasize the transient nature of all phenomena.
More or less, the concept of “ownership” itself is a social construct. Individuals may possess objects and experiences, but ultimately, they are merely temporary custodians. Their bodies, their minds, even their identities are subject to constant change and decay. This impermanence casts doubt on the validity of striving for material possessions or social status as a means of achieving lasting fulfillment.
From a narrative perspective, as elucidated by Dan Harmon in his “Story Circle” theory, tension arises from the protagonist’s desire to achieve a specific goal. However, the universe, with its inherent randomness and unpredictability, often intervenes, introducing unforeseen obstacles and altering the trajectory of events. This narrative framework mirrors the human experience, where carefully laid plans are frequently disrupted by the unexpected.
The human preoccupation with tension and the subsequent resort to pretension can be interpreted as a misguided attempt to exert control over an inherently uncontrollable reality. Recognizing the illusory nature of ownership, the cyclical nature of existence, and the inherent unpredictability of events may lead to a more accepting and less anxious approach to life. By embracing the present moment and accepting the inherent uncertainty of the future, individuals may find liberation from the constant striving for control and the need to project a false sense of self.
Citations:
[1] Friedrich Nietzsche, The Gay Science
[2] Jean-Paul Sartre, Being and Nothingness