The quote “There is no good singing, there is only present and absent” suggests that the quality of singing (or any artistic expression) isn’t a fixed standard but rather a matter of engagement and authenticity in the moment. ‘Present’ refers to being fully engaged, emotionally connected, and immersed in the act of singing—where the performer communicates genuinely with their audience. In contrast, ‘absent’ implies a lack of connection or presence; this could mean either technical perfection without emotional depth or simply going through the motions without real engagement.
This perspective invites us to reconsider how we evaluate art and performance. Instead of focusing solely on conventional measures like pitch accuracy or vocal technique (the ‘good’ part), we are encouraged to appreciate the emotional resonance and connection between the artist and their audience. A performance that feels raw but genuine can have more impact than one that is technically perfect yet lacks sincerity.
In today’s world—especially in personal development—this idea can be transformative. It nudges individuals to prioritize authenticity over perfection in various aspects of life: public speaking, relationships, or even day-to-day interactions. For instance, when giving a presentation at work or sharing ideas with friends, being present means connecting emotionally with your audience rather than just delivering information flawlessly.
In personal development practices such as mindfulness or self-expression workshops, embracing this concept can help individuals focus on being ‘present.’ They might explore their thoughts and feelings honestly during creative activities like writing or painting instead of worrying excessively about how ‘good’ they are at it. This shift can open doors for deeper self-discovery, foster connections with others based on shared experiences rather than superficial judgments based on skill level alone.
Ultimately, by recognizing that presence often outweighs traditional notions of excellence in our pursuits—from art to everyday interactions—we cultivate a more empathetic approach towards ourselves and others. This mindset encourages vulnerability as strength rather than weakness while fostering an environment where everyone feels free to express themselves authentically without fear of judgment for not meeting arbitrary standards of ‘good.’
