Memoir for the Eccentric (and the World)

“The world thinks eccentricity in great things is genius, but in small things, only crazy.”

~Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton.

Those chosen for the eccentric life are destined for hardship. This is a truth they already know. The world would insist on conforming the non-conformer and one of two things shall happen. The eccentric will live either an incredibly sad and confused life or they’ll live around, and endure, a lot of conflict. They’ll capitulate or thrive in resilience. The latter will end up comprising the geniuses of the future and of history, some after they’re long gone.

Both outcomes involve trouble. This world does not tolerate easily such difference.

The true eccentric should not expect the world to sympathise with their condition, situation or enterprise. The world will not accept what it can’t understand.

Many dead eccentrics receive high acclaim; their legacy is hired free of charge—it is now, after all, surrendered (rendered harmless) and as such it’s out of harm’s way. The commoner finds fascinating what is no longer a threat. So, be at peace, Eccentric, you’ll probably be fondly remembered.

The Eccentric and Conflict: these emerge and survive, going arm-in-arm. Against the grain and against the flow. No matter the eccentric’s resolve to live in harmony it cannot occur the way they wish it whilst they remain. Best smile anyway.

The eccentric learns very early on—if they’re wise—to jump clean over the conflict, at least in their own minds, not bothering with a fickle, averse world set on having things all their way. For the nimble eccentric, conflict is splendidly overrated. This in itself is a vast wisdom.

And here’s the rub for the world. You have the opportunity. That is to recognise the eccentric and not deride it. Indeed, to learn to nurture healthy eccentricity and not be threatened by it is a favour for the flow of life; it’s to resist the world’s ingratiating succour—a mocking intent set for the dogs.

To believe eccentricity is genuinely greatness in the making, this is life.

It’s a life based on tolerance for all things weird and wonderful, bizarre, strange and captivating... as well as the “normal.”

Take heart, Eccentric. Yours is the world (against the world) and all that is in it. History will reveal it so. Just align to truth and wisdom at all costs and you shall show them!

© 2010 S. J. Wickham.