This is such a relevant and well-organized post. This thought really struck a chord for me:
"The desire to be exceptional—to be “a great man,” as Jack puts it elsewhere—can be a heavy burden. When we set it aside, we can focus instead on the work we are inwardly compelled to do, rather than what we feel we ought to do to impress others."
Caring what people think (especially the public who doesn't know you well) quickly becomes dangerous, especially if your livelihood depends on others' opinions. For people in that position, it takes a big leap of faith to let the stress of that go and just pursue your calling, even if nobody appreciates your work.
In response to your statement, Sarah, that you've been reticent to share this project because it may not be perceived as academic enough, I would say this. My favorite Lewis works are his ones for children. They have changed my life more than his works for adults (I confess I'm not familiar with his academic work). This is a marvelous project from this non-academic's perspective! I appreciate how accessible it is to a dummy like me.
Thank you, Rima! I love that you mention Lewis' work for children. I feel exactly the same way--the Chronicles were so profoundly formative for me as a young child. It's easy to think that only certain, "important" parts of our lives can make an impact in the world--when so often the things that matter are small and seemingly insignificant. It's extra helpful to remember when one has a small child to look after, day in and day out!
You are certainly not a dummy, my friend. But I am glad that this post resonated with you.
This is such a relevant and well-organized post. This thought really struck a chord for me:
"The desire to be exceptional—to be “a great man,” as Jack puts it elsewhere—can be a heavy burden. When we set it aside, we can focus instead on the work we are inwardly compelled to do, rather than what we feel we ought to do to impress others."
Caring what people think (especially the public who doesn't know you well) quickly becomes dangerous, especially if your livelihood depends on others' opinions. For people in that position, it takes a big leap of faith to let the stress of that go and just pursue your calling, even if nobody appreciates your work.
In response to your statement, Sarah, that you've been reticent to share this project because it may not be perceived as academic enough, I would say this. My favorite Lewis works are his ones for children. They have changed my life more than his works for adults (I confess I'm not familiar with his academic work). This is a marvelous project from this non-academic's perspective! I appreciate how accessible it is to a dummy like me.
Thank you, Rima! I love that you mention Lewis' work for children. I feel exactly the same way--the Chronicles were so profoundly formative for me as a young child. It's easy to think that only certain, "important" parts of our lives can make an impact in the world--when so often the things that matter are small and seemingly insignificant. It's extra helpful to remember when one has a small child to look after, day in and day out!
You are certainly not a dummy, my friend. But I am glad that this post resonated with you.