One of the most intriguing aspects of human psychology is the relationship between morality and creativity. On one hand, people often assume that moral consciousness can limit their ability to express themselves freely and authentically, while others argue that it provides an essential framework for artistic endeavors. But what if there was another dimension to this conversation – what if morality itself could be invisible? In this article, we will explore how moral invisibility affects the capacity for hope and creative expression, looking specifically at the work of author John Updike.
Updike's novel "Invisible Man" explores the theme of identity through the character of Ralph Ellison, who struggles to find himself in a world where he feels like an outsider. The protagonist's struggle with race and class echoes his own experience as an African American man growing up in America during the mid-20th century. He writes in his autobiographical novel, "When I discover who I am, I will become free." For Ellison, self-discovery requires a process of unlearning, shedding the expectations and preconceptions imposed by society so that he can embrace his true self. In doing so, he must also confront the ways in which his own experiences have shaped him, both positively and negatively.
The concept of morality plays an important role in this process, but not in the way you might think. Instead of defining morality as a set of rules or guidelines, Updike presents it as something more fluid and nuanced, shifting depending on context and individual interpretation. As he explains, "Morals are private things, not meant to be argued about; they are like clothes that fit us only so long as no one sees them." In other words, morality is an internalized code that informs our behavior without necessarily being visible to others – a kind of invisible force that shapes our interactions with the world around us.
This idea resonates strongly with the idea of moral invisibility – the notion that we often behave according to unspoken ethical principles without even realizing it. We act according to what we believe to be right and wrong, based on our values and beliefs, rather than consciously thinking through each decision. This can lead to some surprising results – for instance, when we fail to see the impact of our actions on those around us or assume that everyone shares our sense of right and wrong.
But what does all this mean for hope and creative expression? Can we create meaningful art if we don't have a clear understanding of our own moral framework? And how do we navigate the tension between personal freedom and societal expectations? These are questions that Ellison grapples with throughout "Invisible Man," ultimately concluding that art must come from within. It requires a willingness to challenge assumptions and explore new ideas, which can only happen when we embrace the complexity of human experience.
As Updike himself wrote, "Artists are people who want to communicate and artists are people who make something beautiful, whether it's a painting or a novel or whatever. And in order to communicate you have to find your voice…it's got to be honest." Moral invisibility may help us find that authenticity by freeing us from external pressures and expectations. By letting go of preconceptions about right and wrong, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and perspectives, allowing us to express ourselves in ways that are true to who we really are.
Of course, this doesn't mean that morality is irrelevant – far from it. Rather, it suggests that we need to approach morality with an awareness of its many facets and nuances, recognizing that it is not always visible but still present in everything we do. Only then can we fully embrace our individuality and create work that speaks to the human condition in all its richness and diversity.
How does moral invisibility affect the human capacity for hope and creative expression?
The absence of moral recognition can have an adverse impact on people's ability to envision a positive future and express themselves artistically. A lack of attention and respect from society at large, as well as a sense of shame or stigma associated with certain beliefs and behaviors, may lead to self-doubt and feelings of worthlessness. This can dampen one's motivation and drive to pursue new ideas and create artistic works.