The act of making things is inherent for every human being. Even for those who have physical disabilities, our actions always result in something. In her book The Human Condition, Arendt explains that creators should realize that our work and its products contain a sense of a longer existence compared to the brevity of human life. She implies that in creating something, we should view it in relation to longer time of usage. Even if the creator dies, the created thing – with its durability – can still be useful. We must make worthwhile creation that lasts long. Moreover, Arendt asserts that every man indeed should create things. She explained that if the things in this world will be left unused, it will eventually decay. However, as Arendt pointed out, man’s creative work includes the destruction of God-created nature. The element of this violation towards nature is present in every form of fabrication. She implies that that is what it takes for an individual to create. Further, she points out that the creator is free to do so. This means that, in creating, the creator needs to take from something in order to create another.
In a different book, Experimental Music, John Cage gives another concept through music. In the process of creating, he implies, there is always something for conception. There is always something to see and hear. The environment is full of various things from which the creator can get various ideas. Moreover, he implies that, in creating, the act needs to be done. It simply cannot remain as a mere concept. The composition has to be performed, and the performance needs to be observed. Also, he asserted that creators should be open to different methods of making up their ideas. This should be what creators pay attention to. Cage stated that one can even make something through ‘coexistence of dissimilars’. Lastly, he explained that we are not to expect our creations to be the same with others.
For me, Cage’s concept of making is good. There are many other ways to create something; one can create even without putting anything at risk. For instance, I can create beautiful letter cards with my own hands and any existing material at home, without having to spend money to buy one in the store. Further, in creating, I realize that my works will be different from others. I do not have to gain the attention of the whole world. Other people may like it while others may not, and that is just reality. The good thing is that I was able to create.
Works Cited
Arendt, Hannah. The Human Condition. Illinois: University of Chicago Press, 1999. Print.
Cage, John. Silence: Lectures and Writings. Connecticut: Wesleyan University Press, 1961. Print.
