Shirley Bassey: 'No wedding bells for me anymore. I've been happily married to my profession for years.'

No wedding bells for me anymore. I've been happily married to my profession for years.

In her powerful statement, Shirley Bassey succinctly captures her deep commitment to her work, likening it to a fulfilling and lasting marriage. The quote reflects her dedication and passion for her profession, suggesting that she finds true happiness and fulfillment in her work rather than in traditional notions of matrimony. Bassey's choice to prioritize her career over marriage challenges societal norms and demonstrates a strong sense of self-reliance and identity.However, delving deeper into this quote, we can uncover an unexpected philosophical concept that sheds new light on the idea of being married to one's profession. French philosopher Albert Camus proposed the philosophy of absurdism, which revolves around the notion that life is inherently meaningless and absurd, yet individuals must find their own sense of purpose and meaning in this existential void. When applied to Bassey's quote, it offers an intriguing perspective on the idea of being married to one's work.In the context of absurdism, Bassey's dedication to her profession takes on a profound significance. By choosing to allocate her time, energy, and passion to her career, she actively creates her own purpose and meaning in a world that may otherwise seem devoid of inherent significance. Bassey's decision to prioritize her work reflects a conscious choice to find fulfillment and satisfaction in the pursuit of her professional goals, even in the face of life's inherent absurdity.In contrast, traditional marriage often carries with it societal expectations, norms, and predefined roles that may not necessarily align with an individual's true desires and aspirations. Bassey's rejection of wedding bells in favor of her profession highlights her autonomy and agency in choosing a path that brings her genuine happiness and fulfillment. It serves as a powerful reminder that one's personal and professional pursuits should be driven by individual passion and purpose rather than conforming to external expectations or conventions.In essence, Bassey's quote, when viewed through the lens of absurdism, invites us to reconsider the nature of commitment, fulfillment, and meaning in our lives. It challenges us to question traditional notions of success and happiness and encourages us to embrace our unique journey of self-discovery and self-realization. Just as Bassey has found joy and fulfillment in her dedication to her profession, we too can seek to cultivate our own sense of purpose and meaning in a world that may at times seem nonsensical and unpredictable.