Thursday, November 17, 2005

BEING BATMAN

The theme of this post...the superhero and their "ordinary reality" alter ego was suggested by an email from a reader who will remain anonymous for the moment. (If you would like for me to mention your name in association with this let me know.)



This idea is explored in a fascinating article in Forbes entitled BEING BATMAN which examines the logistics and cost of literally producing yourself as Batman. The cost factor, which is sometimes not fully considered when imagining a new "you", is at the forefront here rather than acting or re-writing methods...an entertaining angle for an article in a business magazine.



Another consideration here, of course, is the "chicken/egg" question. Clark Kent did not invent Superman. Superman maintained Clark Kent as a cover. Bruce Wayne invented Batman. Acting out multiple personas or expressing different aspects of the self happens to all of us in our day to day life in less calculating and extreme forms. e.g. There is very often a "different you" at home and at work. An interesting approach would be to intentionally use this as a form of play. Design, produce and act a specific character that has been invented for use only in designated situations. Give this character a name...say, Bob or Juanita...and be Bob or Juanita on Saturdays only.