[NewMusic] Immolation

[damon]

I agree. Let's just consider for a minute how we would feel if it was 
any number of people ever-present on our scene.

Damon

On Nov 8, 2006, at 4:05 PM, Chris Broderick wrote:

> That's the first time that I've heard of a suicidal act being 
> something "spiritual".  Regardless of agreeing with his sentiments, I 
> couldn't agree less with his actions.  Assumedly he's left some loved 
> one behind after this act, and if not, then that is likely the larger 
> reason behind his act than any political protest.  But If he has, then 
> ask that person whether his behavior is "spiritual", or "admirable", 
> or for that matter, worthwhile.
>
> Suffering is indeed a part of life, and suicide is often an attempt to 
> short circuit that suffering.  The statement that this person made 
> above all is this: I can't take it anymore.  Any political statements 
> are secondary, to say the least.  I'm sorry if I can't lionize 
> self-immolation, but having been through chronic depression myself, 
> and having lost a couple of friends to suicide, I have a hard time 
> finding anything noble about it.
>
> -Chris
>
>
>
>
> ----- Original Message ----
> From: Phillip Greenlief <pgsaxo at pacbell.net>
> To: Bay Area New Music Discussion Group <newmusic at music.mills.edu>
> Sent: Wednesday, November 8, 2006 3:44:47 PM
> Subject: Re: [NewMusic] Immolation
>
>
> Sarah,
>
> OK, perhaps admire isn't the right word - mostly because the act can be
> viewed as one of a spiritual nature. It's an act of disintegration - an
> act that will not allow the subject to remain indifferent to 
> atrocities.
> It's an extreme version of the opposite of "indifferent", I agree - and
> that is what is so astonishing about it.
>
> On the other hand, the sage knows that suffering is part of life and
> realizes to wish it otherwise is foolish - the act of wishing something
> is different than it is - is what an enlightened being resists - or
> refuses to consider.
>
> It is also possible to think of this individual as someone that felt he
> needed to embrace the suffering and annihilation that is rampant in 
> Iraq
> by exterminating himself.
>
> So perhaps astonished (how could it be otherwise?) is really the right
> word. But still, after all is said and done - when is the last time
> anyone astonished you with their spirituality? - (if I am perceiving 
> the
> act correctly - it's "correct" for me anyway) - you kind of have to
> admire the guy...
>
> PG
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Phillip Greenlief
> c/o Evander Music
> PO Box 22158 Oakland, CA
> 94623-9991
> www.evandermusic.com
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: newmusic-bounces at music.mills.edu
> [mailto:newmusic-bounces at music.mills.edu] On Behalf Of Sarah - 21 Grand
> Sent: Wednesday, November 08, 2006 2:26 PM
> To: Banewmus List
> Subject: [NewMusic] Immolation
>
> Phillip wrote:
> Sad news, and yet I can't help but admire a guy who would go so far to
> make a statement about the insanity of our involvement in Iraq.
>
> - Well, admire isn't the word I would use - I think as a political act
> it
> was a bit useless - though Rumsfeld did step down today, but I don't
> think
> it was because dude set himself on fire.
>
> - Certainly it is impressive as an act of "performance art" - tops 
> Chris
> Burden getting shot in the arm or nailed to the Volkswagon. Darren and 
> I
> spent a bit of time at dinner last night discussing the ethics and
> responsibility of his action.
>
> sl
>
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