The Complex Coordination of Life
Adagio Sostenuto, Moonlight Sonata No. 2, likely one of the most popular classical songs to date, has captivated the minds of many through the melodic coordination only the likes of Beethoven could achieve. Why do such things enchant us? The carefully synchronized notes, written from an era long ago, continues to stir emotions within each of us, so close to our being, that at times it feels frightening.
Gymnopedie No. 1, another great work, further emphasizes my point. For those who have a moment, take a listen. In all honesty, you’ve likely already heard this song at one point or another, whether it be in a movie, in a YouTube video, or on a casual trip to the mall. Again, why do we still listen to these songs hundreds of years later?
The cultural relevance of works like these cannot be denied. Although moral relativists scoffs at this notion, those who think carefully about the world understand.
Each note of these two songs is carefully and complexly coordinated by the author with a defined purpose. That is why the gravity of each note can still be felt today, despite the endless sea of musical possibilities. Any notes could have been written, but the ones that were fundamentally defines our understanding of each piece.
I believe we still listen to these songs because we understand that like music, life has an infinite number of possibilities, opportunities, and outcomes. We strive to carefully coordinate our lives, but for what purpose?
Slowly I’ve begun to realize that the things which we work so hard to achieve are inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things.
How about that phrase: “In the grand scheme of things,”? Does it not exemplify the fact that careful coordination exists outside of our own control?
The carefully coordinated balance between our passions, interests, and life outcomes should be appreciated for what they are, and accepted for what they are not. Planning for the future is wise, but resenting change is ignorance.
What matters most is this: your reaction to the bad moments is what ultimately defines the good moments to come.
Touching briefly on a personal story of mine, there was a point in my life where I felt entrapped within the boundaries of my former private school. But looking back at my time there, I realize that the issues which I felt most passionate about were the result of environmental factors, genetic probability, but undeniably, my own decisions.
Once I left, I was able to look back and appreciate those hard times, acknowledging that if it were not for those moments - moments that made me shudder in anger - I would not be the person who I am today. It goes to show that in your own life, such moments of complex coordination outside of your own control exist. They are not only possible, but probable.
Artwork by Sarah Havens