Posts by Carla Groh

The notion of melancholy – in an era where we tend to prioritize positivity, enthusiasm, and constant self-improvement – could be perceived as merely excessive and self-indulgent. The consequences of non-compliance with society’s demand for ceaseless productivity appear to contradict any inherent value in a sentiment that seems to only invite apathy and sadness.

Nevertheless, throughout history, numerous scholars and artists have not only declared melancholy the source of their ingenuity, they also have linked it to profound creative resourcefulness that yields existential answers, with philosopher Søren Kierkegaard even referring to it as his closest confidante. The link between creative ingenuity and melancholy throughout cultural history traces mankind’s search for meaning in the face of despair and the answers it yields.