Law 25: Recreate Yourself

Judgment

• Do not accept roles assigned by society.
• Forge a new identity that commands attention.
• Master your own image instead of letting others define it.
• Use dramatic gestures to enhance power and make your character larger than life.

Observance of the Law

Story of Aurore Dupin

• 1831: Aurore Dupin moved to Paris, left her husband and family.
• Wanted freedom to pursue writing without being constrained by marriage.
• Reality: women had to rely on marriage or prostitution for financial freedom.
• Dupin reinvented herself as George Sand, a male persona.

Strategy

• Published first major novel Indiana under the pseudonym George Sand.
• Adopted male clothing and behavior to gain acceptance in literary circles.
• Created an intriguing male-female writer image.
• Public persona helped her join male artist circles and pursue affairs with famous artists.
• Altered her character periodically to keep it fresh and unpredictable.
• Influenced politics and led demonstrations.
• George Sand remains an inspiring figure even after her death.

Interpretation

• Society assigns roles; accepting them limits your power.
• Recreate yourself to enjoy a flexible and powerful identity.
• A new identity protects and elevates you.
• Be responsible for your own creation, like an artist.

Keys to Power

1. Self-Consciousness

• Take control of your appearance and emotions.
• Avoid being overly sincere or emotional in public.
• Good actors can display emotions without feeling them.
• Learn self-control and mold your emotions as required.

2. Creation of a Memorable Character

• Stand out by creating a compelling public persona.
• Example: Abraham Lincoln's homespun image.
• Craft strategic entrances and exits.
• Overacting can be counterproductive; stillness and gracefulness matter.
• Learn to adapt and play multiple roles like Bismarck.
• Be flexible in your identity and not easily grasped by others.