Still seeking a theory of authenticity, in wine and everything. I read a review of a new book, 'The Age of Wonder' by Richard Holmes. Its subtitle: 'How the Romantic Generation Discovered the Beauty and Terror of Science.'
This yin and yang thing reminded me of 'The Dancing Wu Li Masters' by Gary Zukov. Written in the early 1990s, its subtitle: 'An Overview of the New Physics.'
You can read more thoughts about these connections, and of the potential need in the world of wine for a theory of deliciousness, at my other blogpost of this day, here.
But back to yin and yang. In Chinese philosophy yin and yang are used to describe opposing yet interdependent natural forces (yes, I'm simplifying).
I work in the wine business. The family company for which I work owns a winery in Walla Walla WA called Cadaretta. We describe the grape growing and winemaking approach at Cadaretta as a marriage of science and soul: Relentless attention to the details, with trust (and hope) that something sublime will result. Science and soul. Yin and yang. Practical magic.
I've also worked extensively in the theater. In order to make magic on the stage, we depend upon a marriage of structure and spontaneity. We rehearse and rehearse and rehearse, then let go, let flow, and trust in the magic ... the spontaneity that will bring the structure to life.
I've seen (and been involved in) stage productions that were very well-rehearsed but lifeless. They lacked spontaneity. There was no magic, despite the hard work.
Sports are much the same. Practice, practice, practice. But practice doesn't mean you'll win. You must be practiced AND be ready for the unexpected. The magic moments that elevate beyond the structured play or motion. The spontaneous moments that depend upon the structure for their opportunity to shine.
And that, I think, is what I'm looking for in authenticity. That spark of life, to make the base thing dance, and light up the darkness.
Comments