This quote suggests that when a culture or an individual is partially developed or immature, it tends to lean towards complexity and ornamentation. It seeks to impress or prove itself through ostentation and extravagance. However, as a culture or individual matures and becomes more developed, it gravitates towards simplicity. This is because it has gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for the essence of things, rather than their superficial appearances.
In the context of personal development, this quote implies that as we grow and mature, we begin to value simplicity over complexity. Initially, we might be drawn to the flashy and the ornate, thinking that they signify sophistication or success. However, as we gain more life experience and wisdom, we start to realize that true sophistication lies in simplicity. We learn to cut out the unnecessary, to focus on what truly matters, and to appreciate the beauty in the simple and the ordinary.
In today’s world, this idea can be seen in the trend towards minimalism. More and more people are choosing to live with less, to simplify their lives, and to focus on quality over quantity. This is a reflection of a cultural shift towards valuing simplicity over complexity and ornamentation. It’s a move away from the consumerist mentality of more is better, towards a more mindful and sustainable way of living.
This quote also has implications for how we communicate and share information in our increasingly complex and information-saturated world. In a time where we are constantly bombarded with information and stimuli, the ability to simplify and distill complex ideas into their essence is highly valued. This is evident in the popularity of platforms like Twitter, which force users to express their thoughts in a limited number of characters, encouraging brevity and simplicity.
Overall, the quote suggests that the path to maturity and development, whether for cultures or individuals, is a journey from complexity and ornamentation towards simplicity and essence.