Sep 11.

9/11/2025 8:53. Correspondence 27

Hi, it's Calvin. 

I've been thinking more about what I said yesterday. I ended my rant awfully dreary. I'm very sorry about that. I found a happy place for it now, though.

Basically, yesterday I was talking all about how cycles of fear and violence lead to further fear and violence, all in the attempt to gain some control and safety for loved ones. I claimed that it all stems from the incredibly human desire to try to make sense of the cruelty and horrors that exist in this world, and I also made the point that to truly understand anything is an imposible task.  Wow, how dark. 

Well, upon further reflection, I realized the other result of the endless struggle. Art! Art is the human response to the unknown and unknowable. It is the healthy way to cope with the unknowable questions of the universe. So many beautiful, stunning creations have spawned from this struggle. And it's the healthy way to react. 

Let the fear and unknown inspire us to create things for the better, not destroy for the worst. Direct that fundamental need for control to guide your hand towards a brush or pen, not a weapon. 

This all might seem like a silly and stupid revelation, but it's one that's kept me going today. Even though, as I write this, preaching optimism and hope, I have deep fears and insecurities that make me shake, but that's why I do this. That's why I write here, that's why I pick up the guitar or piano. 

That's all for now,

Calvin Landreth