Post-futility

The great futility has two parts. First, the absurd, ultimate, complete futility of life. Second, the system aesthetics of a futile life. Albert Camus believed that the only worthwhile philosophical question was whether or not to commit suicide. This philosophy of the absurd, or absurdism, evolved out of existentialism, I think. Anyway, he thought that most people in history have either realized that the world is completely devoid of meaning and have killed themselves, or else have created a false hope in an artificial meaning in the world via religion or some similar faith-based system. The third option, though, is to perpetually be conscious of the ultimate futility of life, but to continue to live anyway. The person who does this is the absurd hero. According to Camus, there are three types of absurd heroes: the rebel, the Don Juan, and the artist. I haven’t been able to find much more about those three types of heroes, but they sound interesting. If you find anything, or know anything, let me know.

How many people believe that life is futile? I think I do. Strangely, though, I don’t feel saddened by that realization. In fact, I feel strangely happy. It’s a freeing thing to not have to find meaning in things… we strain so hard to find purpose and meaning and what was “meant to be”, and stopping that is a bit like drowning and then realizing that you didn’t need air to breath after all. It’s a dream world.

What exists post-futility, post-absurdism? I think a beautiful system of aesthetics emerges. Life becomes a gallery with blank walls, and you can put anything on them and call it art. There is no need to think about anything other than whether or not the things on the wall, and the floor, and hanging from the ceiling look good. If something looks bad, throw it out. It’s all about style, intention, spirit, enjoyment, grace, and taste.