Joy and pain are ultimately tied together. You can’t enjoy something without the result of pain. For example, you may be having a blast with your friends one night but you must realize the night will come to an end, meaning the fun is over. Another common example is adopting a pet and watching it slowly die.
I believe what Gay is inferring is we let our guard down and show vulnerability. Encouraging us to embrace real human emotions. I am all for this. I think our ability to show emotions is what proves our humanity.
1) The company of my best friend. 2) Spending quality time with my dog such as going on hikes. 3) Cooking homemade meals with my family. 4) Listening to music full blast with noise cancelling headphones. 5) Watching movies. 6) When someone does something thoughtful for me. 7) Performing an act of service for someone that makes them smile. 8) Making others laugh. 9) Playing basketball with my brother. 10) When someone I love gives me a hug.
What I notice about my list I am mainly joyful when others are around me. I like being around the people that make me happy.
Ross Gay’s essay and Zadie Smith’s essay both tackle the concept of joy, but their perspectives are shaped by different approaches. When considering the similarities of these two works, you can pick out several key themes and ideas that resonate with each other, particularly through the lens of a college student.
