Hypothetical of the week
Assume, for a moment, that you are pulled aside on your way somewhere by the anthropomorphic personification of some force with basically limitless powers. Further, assume that it takes the form of Morgan Freeman, or Julia Child, whomever you prefer.
It offers you a simple choice, and gives you five minutes to decide.
"Ian," it would say, "which would you prefer? The ability to create works of unparalleled genius whensoever you felt like it, tempered by the inability to be satisfied with anything you made, or the capacity to be constantly inspired and pleased with your work, but lacking in the originality that would truly set you apart from other people?"
I would ponder intensely for somewhere on the order of four minutes, while the force of unimaginable power twirled an ornate silver pocket watch, probably whistling the harmony of the celestial spheres, or whatever it is that an effectively omnipotent version of Morgan Freeman does while waiting patiently. Eventually, I would start mumbling an answer, catch myself, and say, "Morgan, that's a damned good question. I want to choose the latter. I truly, really do. But I can't let myself. I'll take the former, damning as it may be."
I'd like to think that I have the willpower to abandon my ability to effectively self-criticize for an endless wellspring of brilliant inspiration. Chances are, of course, that I'll never find out.
What's your call, and why?
Bonus question: Why does my brain characterize all omnipotent or omniscient forces as Morgan Freeman or Julia Child?
Addendum: There is an implied third choice in the primary question - you can simply walk away and deny either extreme.
It offers you a simple choice, and gives you five minutes to decide.
"Ian," it would say, "which would you prefer? The ability to create works of unparalleled genius whensoever you felt like it, tempered by the inability to be satisfied with anything you made, or the capacity to be constantly inspired and pleased with your work, but lacking in the originality that would truly set you apart from other people?"
I would ponder intensely for somewhere on the order of four minutes, while the force of unimaginable power twirled an ornate silver pocket watch, probably whistling the harmony of the celestial spheres, or whatever it is that an effectively omnipotent version of Morgan Freeman does while waiting patiently. Eventually, I would start mumbling an answer, catch myself, and say, "Morgan, that's a damned good question. I want to choose the latter. I truly, really do. But I can't let myself. I'll take the former, damning as it may be."
I'd like to think that I have the willpower to abandon my ability to effectively self-criticize for an endless wellspring of brilliant inspiration. Chances are, of course, that I'll never find out.
What's your call, and why?
Bonus question: Why does my brain characterize all omnipotent or omniscient forces as Morgan Freeman or Julia Child?
Addendum: There is an implied third choice in the primary question - you can simply walk away and deny either extreme.