The Thinker

Rodin's The Thinker has probably been the most prominent and influential piece of art in my life. My fellow academic-gamers understand-- our trophies are all "Thinkers."

When I see The Thinker, I see victory through contemplation. However, I also realize that the figure carries a great burden on his shoulders-- the burden of being one who examines life and the current state of affairs. By reflecting on the world that surrounds him, the thinker is forced to take responsibility for that part of the world which he can control. For the person who goes through daily life without regular contemplation, the problems which humankind faces are problems for someone else to take care of. The Thinker is forced to consider his own role in society, and finds himself to be accountable to some degree for its wrongs.

What's so beautiful about The Kiss is that here we see the Thinker getting some love! Truth be told, the Thinker is not solely a mental being. He has a physical presence, with toes that long to curl in passion (thanks Nate), and emotional needs which can only be satisfied through meaningful interaction. She has come to burst his little bubble of isolation. Her love is the fuel that will allow his brain to continue to function, working to use his creative potential to better the entire human race. Without love, the Thinker's thinking would surely become cynical and jaded.

Now, we are all the Thinker to some extent. And sometimes being the Thinker can be very lonely-- you feel like you're the only one who cares about what's going on. Remember to appreciate that part of yourself, and appreciate it when you see it in others. Keep thinkers around you, and know that beneath their serious exterior, they are people who need love just like you. And don't forget to kiss your thinker!