Stephen King: 'I watched Titanic when I got back home from the hospital, and cried. I knew that my IQ had been damaged.'

I watched Titanic when I got back home from the hospital, and cried. I knew that my IQ had been damaged.

Stephen King, a renowned author known for his chilling and gripping novels, once made an interesting statement: 'I watched Titanic when I got back home from the hospital, and cried. I knew that my IQ had been damaged.' At first glance, this quote may seem like a humorous remark or an exaggeration, but upon closer examination, it holds deep significance. King's words highlight the emotional impact that art can have on us, even to the extent of making us question our intellectual capacity. However, to delve deeper into this notion, let us introduce the concept of existentialism, a philosophical perspective that brings a fresh and unexpected angle to this discussion.Existentialism, a philosophical concept popularized in the 20th century, revolves around the individual's struggle to find meaning and purpose in a seemingly meaningless world. It emphasizes the importance of personal freedom, choice, and responsibility. In light of this, King's quote takes on a new dimension. Although his statement may be interpreted humorously, it reflects the existentialist idea of the inherent vulnerability of human existence.The act of watching a film, such as Titanic, can evoke a wide range of emotions within us. The tears shed during the viewing signify a genuine emotional response to the story and characters. However, King's assertion that his IQ had been damaged implies that his emotional vulnerability could potentially overshadow his intellectual capabilities. While this may sound contradictory, it does resonate with existentialist notions of the human experience.Existentialists argue that emotions and intellect are not mutually exclusive; they intertwine and influence each other. The intensity of emotion, such as crying while watching a film, can make us question our rationality, leading us to wonder if our intellectual capacities are compromised. This is because emotions often seem irrational and intangible. However, existentialists would argue that emotions are an essential part of the human experience, as they add depth and meaning to our lives.In this context, King's statement reveals a struggle that many individuals face when confronted with powerful emotional experiences. On one hand, we value our intellect and seek to be rational beings. On the other hand, emotions possess a profound ability to move and challenge us, often leading to a temporary feeling of intellectual vulnerability. King's self-awareness in recognizing this tension is a testament to his understanding of human psychology.Furthermore, this concept extends beyond the realm of films and art. Everyday life presents us with various situations that evoke strong emotions, whether it be joyful or painful. These experiences remind us of our humanity and cause us to question our intellectual capacities. Yet, it is essential to remember that emotions do not diminish our intellect but rather serve as an avenue for personal growth and self-exploration.In conclusion, Stephen King's seemingly lighthearted comment about watching Titanic and feeling that his IQ had been damaged holds deeper meaning than meets the eye. It sheds light on the inherent vulnerability and beauty of the human experience. By introducing the philosophical concept of existentialism, we gain a fresh perspective on the relationship between emotions and intellect. Emotions, no matter how intense or seemingly irrational, are an essential part of our humanity and contribute to our personal growth and understanding of the world. So, the next time you find yourself shedding tears during a film or experiencing intense emotions, remember that it is a testament to your depth as a human being, rather than a measure of your intellectual capacity.