Zadie Smith is a current popular writer. We should listen to what she has to say because she has some very wise insights and is unlike other writers.
Smith distinguishes joy from pleasure by describing joy as a deeper, longer lasting experience. On the other hand, pleasure is quick. It’s driven by what we want or things around us, giving us temporary satisfaction but not the meaningful feeling that joy brings.
Smith explains joy can be difficult to live with when it can also cause pain and suffering. She claims, “It hurts just as much as it is worth.” in other words trying to say that when you experience joy, you realize it will be lost. Such as adopting a dog and watching it die. The joy of adopting it comes with the consequence of the joy ending.
Reading about, thinking about, and discussing joy holds great value because it helps us recognize positive experiences in our lives. When we read about the concept of joy, we deepen our understanding of what brings us happiness. It encourages us to be more mindful of the moments that spark joy, making us appreciate them more in our everyday lives. Discussing joy allows us to connect with others on an emotional level. Reinforcing the importance of happiness as a shared experience. By reflecting on joy, we can also gain insights into how to sustain it, even during challenging times. The value of joy is based off of how engaging in the concept of it contribute to a more optimistic mindset.
Smith’s essay connects to past readings we have read this semester because they all take a popular idea and explain a deeper understanding of it. Why it can be seen as controversial, or show us a new perspective of it.
