The problem with ‘We heart NYC’ goes deeper than aesthetics: it’s an example of how purpose is parasitical upon creativity—and counterproductive for creating social change
Thank you for this. For an article you didn’t intend to write, it was an extremely balanced read and got to the heart (NPI) of an issue that is, ironically, difficult to discuss publicly for many creative people.
Thanks Chris, appreciated. It's depressing to think creative people find it hard to speak against purpose, but I'm sure you're right – it can mark you out as 'difficult' in some way. Hopefully that tide is turning though.
“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.” - C.S. Lewis
Excellent. The disembodied corporate “we” is as delusional as talking about a brand’s “fan community” (with one or two rare exceptions) or that horrible phrase “we put the consumer at the centre of everything we do” - whereas if the truth be known, you can’t “put” people anywhere.
I❤️This
Thank you for this. For an article you didn’t intend to write, it was an extremely balanced read and got to the heart (NPI) of an issue that is, ironically, difficult to discuss publicly for many creative people.
Thanks Chris, appreciated. It's depressing to think creative people find it hard to speak against purpose, but I'm sure you're right – it can mark you out as 'difficult' in some way. Hopefully that tide is turning though.
“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.” - C.S. Lewis
Thanks James, good quote. You could say we live in a new age of robber barons now, but they've learned a better cover story.
I’m a little more worried about those who torment us for our own good!
I really enjoy your pieces on purpose and always look forward to reading your latest Substacks.
The best thing I’ve read about the whole debacle. Thank you, Nick.
Excellent. The disembodied corporate “we” is as delusional as talking about a brand’s “fan community” (with one or two rare exceptions) or that horrible phrase “we put the consumer at the centre of everything we do” - whereas if the truth be known, you can’t “put” people anywhere.
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Great article. 100%. Many parallels with general longhouse moralizing for "solidarity" - one dimensional thinking.