A valid analogy may be observed as between the process of human birth, and that of the creation of new and useful ideas and innovations; the latter process similarly evinces the entrance into the physical world of a previously nascent creation, with potential for independent function following its emergence from its prior internal venue.
The generation of new and original ideas from the flexible human mind is not specific to any gender, age or anatomical feature, except the brain. Like “rainbow electric current stuff” (See: Blog # 94); a spark is perceived, translated into the nuanced language of personal thought, and soon presses for emergence.
The progenitors are those with contemplative personalities who pursue the world of the arts and humanities, or, alternatively, those who actively pursue scientific and empirical inquiry. It is among these fertile members of society that a “eureka moment” may present itself, at any time, for development and subsequent revelation.
Not all such progeny, however, survive beyond the post-natal stage; but, the survivors often are among those that contribute to the progress and development of mankind. One major flaw in our analogy to childbirth consists in the obvious and important distinction that all newborn babies, without exception, are equally acceptable and valuable.
The creative insight internally expressed in the nuanced vocabulary of personal contemplation, is later articulated in external vocabulary, publicly. Thereafter, it is usually run through a gamut of critics and commentators, and those that survive may prove to be useful, conceivably, even of global significance.
There is to be noted, a marked difference between scientific, empirical breakthroughs and new and novel aesthetic creativity.
In the category of scientific innovation, there is usually a significantly longer period of gestation (contemplation). It is not unusual after revelation of the idea, that there is contention as to its progenitor. This can lead to lengthy disputes and often litigation. However, from a broader prospective, the application and use of the new development is of far more importance than its attribution; further development and application thereafter is often achieved “on the shoulders” of the innovative discovery.
In the area of aesthetic innovation, the situation is vastly distinguishable. In this hemisphere, the basic idea or underlying theme has been shared by countless minds. Here, it is the portrayal or representation of the universal, well- known theme, its mode of unique depiction that possesses the creative novelty and skill of the innovating artist. Later artists may further develop similar techniques.
The encyclopedic cornucopia of the human imagination is unlimited. Its vast literature only awaits use.
-p.
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