Orson Welles: 'I passionately hate the idea of being with it I think an artist has always to be out of step with his time.'

I passionately hate the idea of being with it I think an artist has always to be out of step with his time.

The quote by Orson Welles, "I passionately hate the idea of being with it. I think an artist has always to be out of step with his time," speaks to the notion that true artists must possess a rebellious nature, constantly challenging the status quo and resisting conformity. It emphasizes the importance of being out of sync with the prevailing trends and ideologies of one's era in order to create something truly unique and impactful. This quote resonates with artists of all disciplines who believe that their work should reflect their individual voice rather than being dictated by societal expectations.In our fast-paced, ever-evolving world, the pressure to be "with it" has become increasingly pervasive. Social media, technology advancements, and the constant barrage of information have amplified the need to be in tune with current trends, creating a culture where being out of step is often perceived as being out of touch. However, Welles challenges this notion, asserting that it is precisely this willingness to reject conformity that distinguishes an artist and allows for the creation of groundbreaking and timeless works of art.Artists who embrace this philosophy often find themselves at odds with contemporary cultural norms and established conventions. They reject the notion that popularity or commercial success should be the driving force behind their artistic endeavors. Instead, they prioritize authenticity and unbridled creativity, defying societal expectations in the pursuit of genuine self-expression.To further delve into this concept, let's introduce a philosophical concept - absurdism. Absurdism suggests that life is inherently meaningless, and that attempts to find definitive purpose or universal truths are ultimately futile. Instead of succumbing to despair, however, absurdism proposes that individuals embrace the inherent absurdity of existence and create their own subjective meaning.In many ways, the artist's rejection of being "with it" aligns with the philosophy of absurdism. By rejecting societal norms and embracing their unique perspective, artists acknowledge the inherent absurdity of conformity and seek to transcend it. They become the architects of their own reality, giving meaning to their existence through the creation of art that defies categorization and challenges ingrained beliefs.While absurdism may seem at odds with traditional notions of meaning and purpose, it serves as a catalyst for creativity and self-discovery. By transcending societal expectations and being out of step with their time, artists are not only able to create work that resonates on a deeper level but also find a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond fleeting trends or external validation.In conclusion, the quote by Orson Welles encapsulates the essence of what it means to be an artist who defies conformity and chooses to be out of step with their time. It highlights the importance of embracing one's unique perspective and rejecting societal expectations in order to create meaningful and impactful art. When viewed through the lens of absurdism, this rejection of conformity becomes an act of defiance, a celebration of the inherent absurdity of existence, and an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. So, let us celebrate the artists who choose to march to the beat of their own drum and revel in the richness and diversity they bring to our world.