500 WORDS, DAY 78: Music Machines and Materialism

It’s been so weird these past few years really getting into the world of synthesis and music gear, because for so long I was always so against materialism and so convinced that it is ruining society. To be honest, my opinions haven’t really changed too much since then, but I guess I’ve just become okay with being a hypocrite now that I’ve actually found a reason I enjoy enough. From an MPC, to learning about all the different kinds of synthesis, and therefore synthesizers, that exist, to finally starting to dip my toes into the world of modular synthesis, there’s just so much gear, especially considering everything that comes with using these machines, like keyboards, mixers, speakers, audio interface, computer, etc. I guess me being okay with diving deep into this material world of music gear is really just a symptom of a much larger issue, which is that of learning how to normally navigating one’s way through a world which places so much value on material possessions and the money that allows us to get them, while not becoming corrupted oneself. I’ve never really been too harsh on myself when it comes to participating in society, and even though my reason might be a little spiteful, I feel like it’s overall justified. The way I see it, things are set up in such a way that we barely get any time to enjoy our lives before we are too old to even do the things we always wanted to, simply because we won’t have the energy to do them. We are supposed to keep working and working over so many years to pay off things as simple as shelter or transportation, we waste away the most precious hours of our days, and in the end, after taxes and all the bill that need to be get paid, we barely have enough money to truly enjoy ourselves. The way I see it, the way things are set up is such a scam, that I think it’s up to each individual to make his or her own way to get through, even if it means taking advantage of the system every now and then. Maybe it’s just an excuse, but what I mean to say is that I’ve always been open to enjoying the best of the world has to offer, even if I know that ultimately it is all an illusion that is most likely meant to trap us and distract us from our true meaning or happiness. I don’t know why, but it seems like just being aware of the fact will be enough to shield me from its effect, although deep inside I know that isn’t the case. Anyway, if I have to work and spend time away from my family and friends, maybe it isn’t so bad as long as someone’s making these little machines, I can make sounds with. This is life, right? So, what else can I do? Anyway, as always, I appreciate you reading this. It’s time to make another beat!

If you have a few minutes listen to my song ‘somewhere out there.’ Thanks!

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