Thomas Merton: 'Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.'

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.

The quote by Thomas Merton, "Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time," encapsulates the duality of the human experience when engaging with artistic expression. On a superficial level, the quote suggests that through engaging with art, individuals can explore and discover their authentic selves while simultaneously being transported beyond their own personal limitations. However, delving deeper, the quote also serves as a gateway to an unexpected and intriguing philosophical concept - the idea that losing ourselves, particularly in an artistic context, can paradoxically lead to finding a richer and more profound understanding of who we truly are.Art, in all its diverse forms, offers an escape from the confines of mundane reality. Whether it is through painting, writing, sculpture, music, dance, or any other artistic medium, individuals have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a realm devoid of restrictions and societal expectations. In this sense, art acts as a catalyst for self-discovery. When we actively participate in the creation or appreciation of art, we tap into the depths of our own emotions, thoughts, and desires. We find ourselves amidst the intricacies of the artistic process, uncovering hidden facets of our personality and finding a renewed sense of identity.Moreover, art has the extraordinary power to transport us beyond our individual selves and connect us with something greater. When we lose ourselves in the experience of art, a profound sense of connection emerges, whether it be with the artist, the artwork itself, or even with the collective human experience. Time seems to stand still, and the boundaries that separate us from the world around us become blurred. In these moments, we can metaphorically merge with the artwork, allowing it to become an extension of our own being. This dissolution of self allows us to transcend the limitations of our own perspectives and momentarily embody a broader, more expansive consciousness.However, the idea of losing oneself in art can also take on a deeper philosophical meaning. Drawing from the teachings of Eastern philosophy and mysticism, we can consider the concept of the "ego" - the individual's sense of self - and its role in human suffering. The ego, which constantly seeks to delineate and assert its own identity, often acts as a barrier to true self-realization and understanding. By completely surrendering our ego to the artistic experience, we can momentarily dissolve the boundaries that confine us, enabling a deeper connection with our authentic selves and the world around us.In this context, the process of losing ourselves in art becomes an act of spiritual liberation. It allows us to transcend the limitations of our ego-driven existence, providing a pathway to self-transcendence and unlocking a more profound understanding of our place in the universe. By relinquishing our individual selves and merging with the artistic creation, we tap into a universal consciousness, becoming vessels through which the artist's vision and the essence of the artwork can flow.Thomas Merton's quote reflects the transformative nature of art, emphasizing the simultaneous journey of self-discovery and self-transcendence. It invites us to explore the depths of our own being, to lose ourselves in the beauty and meaning of artistic expression, and to ultimately find a more authentic version of ourselves. Through art, we reconcile the paradoxical nature of human existence, discovering that in the act of losing ourselves, we can truly find the essence of who we are.