9th October – I think “by,” not “between.” The fog was lifting and the morning sun began to lace the world with gold. An unforeseen debate at the local coffeehouse ensued about the nature of connection. Is it more profound when we are simply “by” someone or “between” states of existence, I pondered? I leaned towards the former; proximity has a grounding effect that transcends the liminal spaces we often find ourselves trapped in. My thoughts were interrupted by a flurry of sparrows, which brought a peculiar clarity to my musings.
The concept of being “by” versus “between” surfaces an intriguing philosophical tension. Navigating through life, are we more tethered by simplistic presence or the profound uncertainties that lie between? This idea can be further explored in the intriguing article I encountered on [connection and existence](https://interestingtopics.com/connection-existence).
The Reddit post highlights a simple yet profound distinction: the words “by” and “between” represent different modes of existence. “By” underscores the idea of being physically or emotionally close to someone or something, offering a sense of stability and grounding. “Between,” on the other hand, refers to the transient, often ambiguous states that one navigates through in life.
Drawing on the philosophy of Søren Kierkegaard, we encounter a deep Christian existentialist who understood life as a series of stages or spheres—esthetic, ethical, and religious. Kierkegaard suggested that true existential authenticity arises not from the “between” of these stages but from a committed leap of faith where one’s true self stands “by” the divine. Furthermore, Latvian philosopher Konstantīns Raudive, in his explorations of the paranormal, posited that connections with spiritual entities exist “by” us in a different realm, indicating the profound presence that traverses beyond the “between” of life and death.
Artistically, the employment of the “by” rather than “between” resonates with the subtle minimalism in the works of Dutch artist Jan Dibbets. His photographic projects often capture simplified perspectives that focus on the relationship of objects “by” one another—illuminating a dialogue between architectural elements and nature. Similarly, the intimate sculptural installations by contemporary artist Charlotte Dumas utilize spaces “by” her subjects, emphasizing closeness and subtle emotional connections rather than the fluctuating uncertainty of the in-between.
Reflecting on these observations, one is reminded of the fine balance an artist like Dumas strikes in her enigmatic series portraying animals. Her photography allows us to stand “by” these creatures, evoking an immediate, profound connection without the intrusion of the frantic “between” spaces that interrupt our modern lives. Likewise, Kierkegaard’s emphasis on being “by” one’s true self rather than lost “between” illusion and reality brings to light a deep existential authenticity.
I recall a typically Dutch scene: bicycling through the narrow streets at dusk. The world seemed confined within the steady rhythm of my wheels and the accompanying shadow cast under the street lamps. A boy ran “by” his father, not between destinations but by his side, reinforcing an emotional bond that transcended their individual motions. This moment was a microcosm of connection—a potent antidote to the disorienting ever-present “between” of modern existence.
What do you think is the best approach: living truly “by” those we care about, cultivating meaningful connections grounded in presence, or navigating the thrilling uncertainties that lie “between” the stages of life? Reflect on your experiences, and share your thoughts. Embrace the art of presence; be “by” someone’s side today.
Kierkegaard and Existential Authenticity
Jan Dibbets – Minimalism and Perspective
Charlotte Dumas – Animal Connections
The concept of being “by” versus “between” surfaces an intriguing philosophical tension. Navigating through life, are we more tethered by simplistic presence or the profound uncertainties that lie between? This idea can be further explored in the intriguing article I encountered on [connection and existence](https://interestingtopics.com/connection-existence).
The Reddit post highlights a simple yet profound distinction: the words “by” and “between” represent different modes of existence. “By” underscores the idea of being physically or emotionally close to someone or something, offering a sense of stability and grounding. “Between,” on the other hand, refers to the transient, often ambiguous states that one navigates through in life.
Drawing on the philosophy of Søren Kierkegaard, we encounter a deep Christian existentialist who understood life as a series of stages or spheres—esthetic, ethical, and religious. Kierkegaard suggested that true existential authenticity arises not from the “between” of these stages but from a committed leap of faith where one’s true self stands “by” the divine. Furthermore, Latvian philosopher Konstantīns Raudive, in his explorations of the paranormal, posited that connections with spiritual entities exist “by” us in a different realm, indicating the profound presence that traverses beyond the “between” of life and death.
Artistically, the employment of the “by” rather than “between” resonates with the subtle minimalism in the works of Dutch artist Jan Dibbets. His photographic projects often capture simplified perspectives that focus on the relationship of objects “by” one another—illuminating a dialogue between architectural elements and nature. Similarly, the intimate sculptural installations by contemporary artist Charlotte Dumas utilize spaces “by” her subjects, emphasizing closeness and subtle emotional connections rather than the fluctuating uncertainty of the in-between.
Reflecting on these observations, one is reminded of the fine balance an artist like Dumas strikes in her enigmatic series portraying animals. Her photography allows us to stand “by” these creatures, evoking an immediate, profound connection without the intrusion of the frantic “between” spaces that interrupt our modern lives. Likewise, Kierkegaard’s emphasis on being “by” one’s true self rather than lost “between” illusion and reality brings to light a deep existential authenticity.
I recall a typically Dutch scene: bicycling through the narrow streets at dusk. The world seemed confined within the steady rhythm of my wheels and the accompanying shadow cast under the street lamps. A boy ran “by” his father, not between destinations but by his side, reinforcing an emotional bond that transcended their individual motions. This moment was a microcosm of connection—a potent antidote to the disorienting ever-present “between” of modern existence.
What do you think is the best approach: living truly “by” those we care about, cultivating meaningful connections grounded in presence, or navigating the thrilling uncertainties that lie “between” the stages of life? Reflect on your experiences, and share your thoughts. Embrace the art of presence; be “by” someone’s side today.
Connection and Existence
Kierkegaard and Existential Authenticity
Jan Dibbets – Minimalism and Perspective
Charlotte Dumas – Animal Connections
Oh, come on! This article was a mess. All this philosophical mumbo-jumbo about “by” and “between” is just overcomplicating things. Who has time to wade through all these existential musings nowadays? And what’s with the random shoutouts to Kierkegaard and some obscure Latvian philosopher? I’ve never heard of Konstantīns What’s-His-Face before in my life!
The so-called “deep connection” angle with artists like Jan Dibbets and Charlotte Dumas feels like a desperate attempt to sound intellectual. They tried so hard to draw a parallel between different art forms and this nonsense philosophical debate. And sparrows bringing clarity? Seriously? Who uses birds as a metaphor anymore without sounding cliché?
If they think being “by” someone is more stabilizing than the uncertainties of being “between,” they clearly haven’t lived through the decades of ups and downs that I have. And the classic bike ride through the Dutch streets at dusk? Give me a break. It’s like they’re trying to romanticize everything for no reason.
In the end, this isn’t ground-breaking; it’s just a lot of pretentious drivel. So go ahead, try being “by” someone or stuck “between” whatever. Just don’t waste your time reading rubbish like this.