Western and Oriental Philosophy: The lecture draws from various philosophical traditions including Plato's "Phaedrus" and the "Bhagavad Gita".
Symbolism and History: Discussion on how different civilizations, such as Greeks and Egyptians, adapted symbols to their own cultural contexts.
Modern Innovations and Human Symbols
Technological Advancements: We can calculate astronomical distances and simulate universe creation.
Lack of Modern Symbols: Despite our advancements, modern society struggles to create new humanistic symbols and relies on ancient ones.
The Role of Resistance
Internal Warfare: The lecture emphasizes the concept of an internal battle against inertia and instincts, a theme prevalent in ancient texts like the "Bhagavad Gita" and "Odyssey".
Resistance: Defined as internal adversaries that prevent growth and creativity.
Steven Pressfield and "The War of Art"
Steven Pressfield's Philosophy: Emphasizes overcoming internal resistance to achieve personal and artistic growth.
Modern Adaptation of Classics: Pressfield's works draw heavily from classical inspiration and adapt them into modern narratives, such as in "The Legend of Bagger Vance".
Resistance: Characteristics and Overcoming It
Characteristics of Resistance:
Invisible and Internal: Manifest as a force pulling away from purposeful work.
Universal and Impersonal: Affects everyone, born from fear of growth.
Strategies to Overcome:
Daily Commitment: Overcoming resistance involves daily dedication to one's craft.
Professionalism: Treating creative work with the same seriousness as professional work.
Professionalism and the Creative Process
Professional vs. Amateur: Professionals commit to their creative work daily, unlike amateurs who treat it as secondary.
Ceremony and Routine: Importance of establishing a routine and treating creative work ceremonially.
Learning and Mastering Technique: Continual improvement and learning from past masters to be ready when inspiration strikes.
The Role of the Muse and Inspiration
Invocation of the Muse: Pressfield practices a daily ritual invoking the Muse to inspire creativity.
Inspired vs. Technically Perfect Work: True creative work involves inspiration beyond mere technical skills.
The Internal and External Orientations
Territorial vs. Hierarchical Orientation: Encourages focusing on one's own work (territorial) rather than external validation (hierarchical).
Nourishment from Territory: One's craft should be personally fulfilling, providing sustenance independent of external approval.
The Spiritual Aspect and Philosophical Insights
Self vs. Ego: The Self seeks growth and creativity while the ego focuses on survival.
Fear of Success: The biggest fear is often the fear of achieving our true potential.
Offering the Fruits of Labor: Aligning work with higher purposes and dedicating its outcomes to something beyond oneself.
Conclusion
Philosophy Course Invitation: Emphasizes the value of philosophical study to understand these concepts deeply.
Legacy of Resistance Across Cultures: Many historical philosophers have discussed similar ideas of internal resistance and personal growth.