Is Artistic Genius an Excuse?by Dale Harcombe | More from this Blogger 29 Aug 2008 06:03 PM Are those with exceptional artistic or creative talent outside the rules for normal relationships and marriage boundaries? So often in today's society, and even past society that seems to be the case. We make excuses because they are a genius. That was some of the thoughts that came out of the play Mick and I saw last night. We went with friends to see our local drama group's production of the play Mr. Bailey's Minder by Australian author Debra Oswald. The play is the 'tough, funny and bighearted story of an abusive and cantankerous' artist called Leo Bailey. Leo has had a number of marriages and children but at the end of his life he is alone because he had alienated everyone in his narcissistic pursuit of his own happiness and talent. Until a woman fresh out of jail is employed by Margo, the only one of his adult children who keeps in any contact with him. That he calls her 'the viper' tells you a lot about that relationship. It was funny and emotional play, particularly so towards the end. I came home with a headache from trying not to make a complete idiot of myself by bawling my eyes out. It did make me think about those with a great gift whether it be in art, writing, acting, music and how so much gets sacrificed in the course of pursuing that talent and artistic dream, that marriage partners, family and everything else gets pushed aside to serve the all encompassing talent. I admit I have trouble with the concept of putting a talent before people. I could not imagine endangering my relationship with my husband and family to pursue my own dream. Now, maybe that shows I'm not the right personality to be a famous writer or a creative genius. If so, fine. To me, my husband and family are far more important. I'm inclined to think those pursuing their own dream at the expense of spouse and family fit into Beth's category of the narcissist. But I'd be interested to hear what others think. Should we make excuses for creative geniuses? Do they get to play outside the rules? Have you ever been involved with such a person? Are you a tortured genius?u Closer to home, how much or who would you sacrifice to pursue a talent or achieve your dream? Please visit these related blogs Should You Confront a Narcissist about their Narcissim? Dealing with a Narcissist Family Member The Emily of the New Moon Series- L.M Montgomery Are Your Core Values the Same? Learn more about Dale Harcombe  Dale has a passion for books and writing. She writes in various forms, from articles to poetry to fiction for children and adults. Relevantmarriage tags User Comments  Jade Walker (964) 30 Aug 2008 06:42 AMPeople who date, love and marry talented people understand one simple fact: the talent defines their mate's personality and outlook on life. You're not dating someone who happens to be good at writing; you're dating a writer. You're not dating someone who's good at sports; you're dating an athlete. And being a writer, painter, chess master, athlete, etc., means you see the world through different eyes. Many people in society have children as a way of leaving their imprint on the world. Kids carry on their name, their values, their aspirations. Talented people may have children, but their legacy results from fame, fortune, awards or a simple acknowledgment of their talents. That doesn't make them narcissists. It just means they have something else to offer the world, and that shouldn't be discounted simply because it's not what ordinary people do.  Dale Harcombe (10399) 30 Aug 2008 03:28 PMIt doesn't always mean that, but it can. In the case of the artist in the play that was certainly the case. I wasn't discounting their talent but don't think it should always be an excuse for bad behavior either. There have been other great writers, artists, musicians who have managed to serve their talent and not walk over others in the process. Good to hear your thoughts though.  Beth McHugh (13216) 30 Aug 2008 04:51 PMHi Dale, now I'll have to do an article on the established link between actual genius and mental illness! For those that aren't clinically ill, yet very talented, it must be a fine line to tread between pursuing your talent and being a parent. I know Margaret Ollie claims that is the reason she never had children. At a more everyday level, it's even hard for a woman to juggle her talent as a surgeon or barrister perhaps, with parenting. Sounds like it was a good play!  Kara |
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