Outside my window
horny pigeons coo and dance
vernal passions stir
While we now associate the word "epicure" with refined — or even exotic — tastes, this is actually one of those ironic conversions one finds in the English language: the word has acquired a different meaning from its original usage. Within the Epicurean philosophy (300 BCE) two types of pleasures are identified. Kinematic are the volatile sensual pleasures we now associate with hedonism, but these unnecessary desires and gratifications can distract one from katastematic pleasure: simpler contentments.
Katastematic pleasure's highest form (ataroxia) is a state of tranquility that requires "understanding the limits of life and removal of the fear of death, cultivation of friendships, and the removal of unnecessary desires and gratifications" (Oxford Dictionary Philosophy). One does not accumulate or hoard this contentment, instead it is present now. Additionally, Epicureans were very much aware of how fear can control our lives, particularly the fear of death. Yet, it was Lucretius who expressed a position — that I've held since my teens — that one should not fear death, for when you're dead, you don't know you're dead and there's little to worry about. But I do fear dying. (As Woody Allen said, "It's not that I'm afraid to die, I just don't want to be there when it happens.") It is to this that both the ancient Greeks and ancient Buddhists provide a balm. Live in the moment and appreciate the simple pleasures it offers.
Interestingly, Kimya talks about how her online diary informs her songwriting.
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