Jessica Brown Findlay: 'Everything you listen to when you are 17 should be embarrassing, otherwise you are way too cool.'

Everything you listen to when you are 17 should be embarrassing, otherwise you are way too cool.

Jessica Brown Findlay once said, 'Everything you listen to when you are 17 should be embarrassing, otherwise you are way too cool.' At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing. How can embarrassment be desirable? However, delving deeper into its meaning, it becomes clear that Findlay is hinting at the beauty of embracing vulnerability during our teenage years. By acknowledging and even celebrating the potential embarrassment associated with our taste in music during this pivotal age, we open ourselves up to a world of self-discovery and growth. Findlay's words encourage us to let go of the need to be 'cool' and instead embrace our authentic selves.In society, there is often a pressure for teenagers to conform and fit into pre-defined molds of what is considered 'cool' or 'acceptable.' This includes the types of music they listen to. Adolescence is a time of self-exploration and experimentation, where discovering personal tastes and preferences is instrumental in shaping one's identity. What Findlay suggests is that if everything we listen to at this age is already perceived as 'cool,' we may be denying ourselves the opportunity to step outside of our comfort zones and truly explore the vast musical landscape available to us.Embarrassment is a natural response when our tastes don't align with societal norms or when we revisit the music choices made during our younger, less discerning years. It signifies growth and maturation, showing that we have evolved and expanded our musical horizons since then. Embracing embarrassment allows us to reflect on our past selves without judgment and recognize the journey we have taken to become who we are today.However, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept into the mix - the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi is an aesthetic philosophy that appreciates the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness. It finds value in the flawed and transitory aspects of life, emphasizing the beauty that can be found in the imperfect and the unconventional.Drawing parallels between Findlay's quote and wabi-sabi, we can begin to view 'embarrassing' music tastes in a different light. These songs that elicit a sense of embarrassment are inherently imperfect, not conforming to conventional notions of coolness. But this imperfection is what makes them uniquely beautiful and authentic to our 17-year-old selves. It is a reflection of our individuality, our evolving taste, and our willingness to express vulnerability.Wabi-sabi teaches us that rather than striving for perfection or clinging to societal expectations, we should find value in the unpolished, the unconventional, and the idiosyncrasies that make us who we are. Embracing the embarrassment associated with our teenage music choices aligns with this philosophy, as it allows us to appreciate the imperfections in our journey of self-discovery.Moreover, Findlay's quote challenges the notion of what is considered 'cool' or socially acceptable. It prompts us to question why we often feel the need to seek validation or conform to societal standards. By embracing the potentially embarrassing aspects of ourselves, including our musical tastes, we break free from the shackles of external judgment. We learn to be comfortable in our own skin and embrace the full spectrum of our experiences.In essence, Findlay's words encourage us to view embarrassment as a sign of growth and authenticity. They inspire us to resist the pressure to conform and explore the diverse and ever-expanding world of music. By doing so, we not only embark on a voyage of self-discovery, but we also cultivate a deeper appreciation for the imperfect and unconventional aspects of our lives. So the next time you cringe at the music you once loved during your adolescent years, remember that it represents a part of your journey and an invitation to celebrate the richness of your own wabi-sabi existence.