Alexander McQueen: 'I always wanted to be a designer. I read books on fashion from the age of 12.'

I always wanted to be a designer. I read books on fashion from the age of 12.

Alexander McQueen's quote, "I always wanted to be a designer. I read books on fashion from the age of 12," resonates with aspiring designers across the globe. It encapsulates the unwavering passion and determination that drove McQueen to pursue his dreams, transforming him into a revered icon in the fashion industry. This quote can be interpreted as a testament to the power of early exposure and the influence it can have on shaping one's career trajectory. However, beyond its straightforward meaning, this quote lends itself to a deeper philosophical concept – the interplay between destiny and knowledge.Destiny, as an abstract notion, has long fascinated thinkers and artists alike. It suggests that individuals are bound by some predestined fate, beyond their control, which guides their life choices and achievements. McQueen's fervent desire to become a designer from an early age could be seen as a sign that he was destined to fulfill this role. His inclination towards fashion, evident through his insatiable hunger for knowledge and consuming fashion literature since the age of 12, suggests an innate connection to his chosen path.On the other hand, the quote also highlights the significance of knowledge and education in pursuing one's passion. McQueen's voracious appetite for fashion books demonstrates the importance of gaining expertise and understanding in a field that captivates us. In his case, this propelled him to become a talented designer, as he absorbed the nuances and intricacies of fashion from a young age.However, when contemplating the interplay between destiny and knowledge, a thought-provoking question emerges: Are our paths predetermined, or do our desires and the knowledge we acquire have the ability to reshape our destiny? McQueen's quote presents an intriguing perspective. It suggests that while there may be an inherent inclination fueling his desire to become a designer, it was through his avid consumption of fashion literature that he acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to actualize that destiny.Perhaps it is the synthesis of both destiny and knowledge that brings individuals to great heights. Destiny acts as a guiding force, providing an inherent pull towards certain paths, while knowledge fuels the passion and equips individuals with the necessary tools to navigate those paths successfully. In this way, one can perceive a beautiful dance between the forces that shape our lives, a delicate balance of predetermined inclinations and our efforts to understand and shape our destinies.Moreover, McQueen's quote illustrates how the seeds of passion can be sown at an early age, blooming into a life's work. It emphasizes that it is never too early, or too late, to start pursuing one's dreams. By immersing oneself in the subject matter, whether it be through reading, attending workshops, or acquiring practical experience, one can create a solid foundation for their aspirations. It is this foundation that allows dreams to flourish and the unattainable to become reality.In conclusion, Alexander McQueen's quote embodies the profound significance of following one's passion and the role knowledge plays in shaping our destinies. It presents an invigorating blend of destiny and education, acknowledging the impact of both factors in shaping McQueen into the celebrated designer he became. Whether one believes in the concept of destiny or not, this quote serves as a reminder that when passion and knowledge intertwine, remarkable achievements are truly within reach. So, let us all take inspiration from McQueen's example and embrace our passions, pursue knowledge, and carve our destinies with unwavering determination.