Nicky Cheese

Finally, I explain the seemingly nebulous Nietzschian reference. Whoo! Actually, as it turns out, I had already explained it long ago. From a religious studies paper I wrote in 2005 for Robert Williams (my fav professor at UIC):

…life’s ultimate spheres of expression…the two fundamental drives that govern the world. These drives or spheres–inherently opposed to each other–are embodied in Greek culture by the art deities Apollo and Dionysus…

The Apollinian drive–striving towards that which is structured, sculpted and measured–symbolizes all that has form and shape. Because objects that have form consequently have a limit or a physical restraint, the Apollinian drive can be thought of as a cognitive faculty that organizes and individuates, making sense out of an otherwise incoherent reality…

Where as all is shaped and individuated in the Apollinian sphere, in the Dionysian drive “everything subjectives vanishes into complete self-forgetfulness” (BOT, p.36). This tendency yields the collapse of the individual–the collapse of limitations and coherenecy–and manifests a state of personal detachment or temporary self-oblivion. “Its annihilation of the ordinary bounds and limits of existence contains, while it lasts, a lethargic elemtn in which all personal experiences of the past become immersed.” (BOT, p.59).

If one thinks of the state of mind intoxication or music brings, where one’s inhibitions and individual concerns vanish–sometimes thought of as ‘losing oneself (in the whole)’–one gets a better idea of this drives. Nietzsche specifically references ancient orgiastic festivals where “the most savage natural instincts were unleashed” (BOT, p.39), and consequently, a situation in which all order, civility, and individuality disappeared…

…this feeling of a higher community–a mystical feeling of oneness among many…The Apollinian drives is necessary is protecting man from the chaotic rapturous ecstasy of Dionysus, giving him a foundation from losing himself completely self-oblivion.

I think Nietzsche’s metaphysical dichotomy speaks to the human condition. Moreover, I think a libertarian dance party–an event that combines a uniquely Dionysian activity (the dance party) with an Apollinian message (lyrics espousing a libertarian philosophy) is the perfect way to express that condition. It’s celebrating individuality collectively!

With that said, let’s jam out to this week’s pick:

DJ Skiefer — 2nd Amendment