I am basically going through an identity crisis in my life these days. So many strange factors in this world pull us in different directions. What career? What family? Where to live? You know, the usual routine. The same old questions that plague my thinking, day after day. It's kind of a zen experience much of the time. You think you've taken three steps forward, only to find yourself in a tougher place than you were before.
That's where George Lucas comes into frame. Today, and yesterday, I had the privelage of watching the original Star Wars film. Now, you may consider me a Star Wars purist, because I love the non-Special Edition version. Without aid of tons of money, a small band of rogue nerds created a genuine masterpiece. And, at the helm, was a young George Lucas. This film is inspiring to me on so many levels, I hardly know where to start. And, of course, what would it be without the brilliant John Williams score?
First, there is the George Lucas factor. Here was a young guy who had directed an independent film called THX. And, well, that was about it. He wasn't much of a writer, and loathed the process. Yet, he had ideas, and passion. With that as his driving force, he worked around financial limitations. The result was a genuine masterpiece. Today, we flippantly throw around terms such as "masterpiece", and "genius" very loosely. People that are very talented, or clever often gain the "genius" label.
The dictionary definition of masterpiece is: "The greatest work, as of an artist. Also called masterwork." or "An outstanding work of art or craft." A genius is described as "A person of extraordinary intellect and talent: 'One is not born a genius, one becomes a genius' (Simone de Beauvoir)." Well, Lucas fits the bill.
One reason I love Star Wars is because Luke Skywalker experiences genuine change. He is a young (whiney) man who doesn't know what to do with his life. He knows something bigger is out there, but he doesn't know how to achieve it. Then, before he realizes it, he's doing and feeling things he never thought were possible. It's very inspiring.
Plus, the Mellinnium Falcon is rad.
Click here if you want to learn more about George Lucas. There is a fascinating interview on achievement.org.
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