The Mythic Imagination

Of prime importance to the artist in his work is the ability to see symbols everywhere and in all things. Symbols began with the first myths and are still being developed and manipulated today. While the context of the symbols may change from culture to culture, the universal truths behind the symbols remains the same.

That having been said, there are several important differences between:

Western Art and myth and
Eastern Art and myth

For a look into where myths came from and where they are going, explore:

Primitive Myths and
Modern Myths

or learn how myths can help you in Living Through Myths.

West Art and myth

Occidental art and myths possess the distinct virtue of individualism. Although man was created in the image of god, he is, himself, a separate and distinct entity with the abilities to make the greatest contributions to humanity or causing its ultimate destruction.

Prometheus is the great champion of humanity in western myth. Chained to the the cliffs of Caucasus, we see Prometheus suffering in torment as an eagle is sent to eat out his liver every morning. Every evening it grows back, but still he continues to stand for the virtues that he represents. In him we see the greatness inherit in humanity and something for which we all should strive.

Eastern Art and myth

Oriental art and myths are devoid of the individual spirit of western myths. In the orient there is a oneness with the cosmos, and god is not a deity to worship but a thought inside you. God is in every living thing.

The zen state of oriental paintings relies upon a harmony with existence. The individual is not expected to acheive greatness, but to will himself out of existence. Typically, if we see the figure of an individual at all, it is not a man but rather a deity, greater than man, into which we should strive to join.

More often, however, the art is of a single object--a tree, a leaf, etc. Something to focus our attention on. In focusing our attention on the object, we might come to know the tao (everything/oneness).

Primitive Myths

Ancient cave paintings reveal an interesting glimpse into the primitive psyche. Here is the earliest known of all the arts. These animals and men depicted on walls result from a frightened and confused race, uncertain about death or life..

It becomes obvious that the early human psyche was obsessed with death. Myth began as a means to resolve the guilt in the human psyche.

What developed as a result of these feelings and paintings are the ancient rites. These rites developed as a means to ease their own conscience. Unfortunately, today, rites have all but disappeared, and we can see the tragic results in the chaos of everyday life.

Modern Myths

Myths never die; they are in a constant state of evolution. Regardless of your take on religion, all religions cannot be true. Every man is influenced by myth even today. We are brought up in a specific belief system that is evolving and changing.

Science has gone a long was to overturn many of the conclusions of religion and myth. While this results in man coming closer to knowing the truth, it also means that we must take greater responsibility, as we no longer have the myths to guide us. Without rectifying what science has taught us with our myths, we come to chaos.

The myths today are represented in our arts. The great novels, cinematic arts--these stories are our guides today.

Living Through Myths

So what do myths have to offer us other than arcane symbols and eclectic religions? Myths tell us how to live our everyday lives. They provide direction--rights and wrongs. By listening to myths, we can begin to understand ourselves.

Myths are not lies; they are metaphorical of experiences in the human race. Although a myth may not be literally true, the underlying truth behind the myth is. By understanding myths, we can begin to understand ourselves.

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