Self-isolation as a way of life
COVID-19. Even the name itself sounds ominous, like something straight out of a dystopian sci-fi catastrophe film. Unfortunately, it’s very real and so are its consequences. This modern plague has claimed thousands of lives thus far, affected and compromised the health of countless more, and placed the whole world on hold. Although we’re living in times in which mankind was never more aggressive in its attempt to bend everything around us to its will; despite the enormous advances in science and technology, we’re still utterly powerless against the forces of nature, even those which we cannot see with the naked eye. One should pause for at least a moment and ponder on this with a true sense of humility.
The whole planet is affected by COVID-19 to some degree. There are no exceptions, no borders, no segregations whatsoever. Although the world always seems strangely united in such crises, every nation and every person has their own way of combating them. For instance, here in Croatia, some rather strict rules and limits were implored from the very beginning. While the positive results of these measures are clearly palpable looking at the relatively moderate development of disease on our territory, there are still many of those who think that the situation is not as grave as it seems and that they’ve withdrawn from their basic rights in the process. Some even go as far as ignoring all the figures, warnings, and suggestions, just to spite.
While most people have extreme difficulties coping with this situation and are having a hard time accepting the necessary social distance, for some of us, myself included, self-isolation is the usual and preferred way of life. Everyone with a true passion for creative work knows that this inevitably means solitude. Especially if you, like me, are not fortunate enough to be surrounded by people who understand this need for freedom, peace, and a somewhat slow pace of living. It seems that the vast majority prefer exactly the opposite.
Personally, I’ve never wanted some usual day job, taking most of my time. I hate stress and a hectic lifestyle. I was never one of those chasing money, career, and glory all their life. I never did enjoy crowds and noise. I can do well without hanging out in bars listening to mindless small talk or sweating out the whole night in some nightclub. I would always pick my creative solitude over any of this. So it seems that I’m more than fit to accept this current necessity of social distancing.
But like everyone else, I’m also a victim of COVID-19 in my own way. First of all, I have several family members who are at particular risk due to their age and health. Also, for many years now, my main source of income comes from performing at various gigs. As you can imagine, this year’s season is still pretty much under the big question mark. However, I can always find comfort in my creative work, spending time with my family and pets, or simply enjoying a good book or film.
As much as this calamity had set the whole world back, in every evil, difficulty, and strife, there is at least a hint of something good. Perhaps this experience will make us think that it’s time to finally slow down a little. To appreciate each other and the world that surrounds us more than we usually do.