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?
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