Geoff Thompson: Writer – Teacher – Martial artist

Ideas are maps! An interesting concept and true I think. Dylan said so and he is the consummate journeyman. But, from the uncensored plethora, begging our attention, which ideas should we adopt?
Conspiracy and royal assassination? Parental murder on foreign shores?

I think we need to be discerning about the information on offer, because whilst provocative headlines might seem artlessly incidental, if you expose yourself to them often enough they become insidiously affecting.

I know, I followed these maps briefly in a former incarnation. I got dizzy-fish-bowl headache and was left nauseously cynical.

They are maps, but the terrain is untrue and the destination one without soul.

These days I’m very particular about the notions I entertain. Finicky over the charts I navigate. My sanity demands no less. I’ve learned to formulate my own ideas and follow my own maps (and even these are malleable).

They afford me a better viewpoint, a higher perspective. Instead of assassination and plot I imagine tragic accidents in French tunnels. In place of homicidal mothers, I pray for innocent and hideously grieving parents.

These benevolent maps – even if later proven inaccurate – lead me to place of hope and compassion. And whilst I am often accused of utopianism, it’s got to be better than its bleak alternative.

© Geoff Thompson : October 2007