Whosever is delighted in solitude, is either a wild beast or a god
Aristotle in The Atlantic - chic
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where social validation, external achievements, and constant connectivity are highly prized, the idea of solitude is often overlooked or even feared. However, for some, the quiet moments alone are not just a refuge but a source of profound personal insight and peace. The famous quote by Aristotle, “Whosever is delighted in solitude, is either a wild beast or a god,” speaks to the paradox of solitude as both a potentially dangerous retreat and a space for transcendence. As a business founder and someone who has experienced the depths of solitude firsthand, I (Justyna Kedra, founder of WERULE) find this quote to be especially relevant. It resonates deeply with my own experiences of solitude, the insights I've gained from them, and the tensions I sometimes feel about whether I am living as a "wild beast" or a "god."
In this article, I will explore the significance of this quote in my own life, how solitude has shaped my understanding of the world, and what it means to find peace in solitude while simultaneously navigating the complexities of human connection and social expectations.
The Dual Nature of Solitude: Wild Beast or God?
Understanding the Quote
Aristotle’s statement is provocative and seems almost paradoxical. On the one hand, solitude can be a sanctuary, a sacred space for self-reflection, creativity, and personal growth. On the other hand, it can be isolating, leading to madness or a sense of alienation from society. Aristotle’s observation touches on this dichotomy: those who thrive in solitude either have transcended societal norms and reached a higher level of self-awareness (a "god" in his metaphor) or have detached from societal bonds to the point of becoming a "wild beast"—untamed, disconnected, and perhaps even dangerous.
This duality resonates with many people who experience solitude in different ways. For some, being alone is an opportunity for peace and reflection, while for others, it breeds a sense of loneliness or disconnection that becomes unbearable.
My Relationship with Solitude
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been comfortable with being alone. In fact, I’ve often found peace and clarity in solitude, an inner calm that many people seem to struggle with. Unlike others who often seek validation from external sources—friends, social media, or societal expectations—I have always found my validation internally. This is not to say that I am immune to the need for connection, but rather that I’ve never felt the intense pull that drives many to seek constant affirmation from others.
This brings me to the core of Aristotle’s quote: Am I a wild beast or a god?
I often go between the two extremes. There are days when I feel that I am stepping into a realm of self-knowledge so profound and disconnected from the world that I can’t help but feel like I’m transcending the ordinary. In these moments, I feel closer to a "god" in the sense that I’m at peace with myself, my choices, and my purpose. On the other hand, there are moments when the solitude feels almost too isolating, and I question whether I’ve moved too far from the human need for connection and empathy. These moments feel closer to the wild beast—detached from society, unrooted in the communal experience.
The Beauty of Solitude
The beauty of solitude is something I have come to deeply appreciate over the years. Whether it was spending days or even weeks disconnected from the world, I found a type of serenity in being alone that cannot be replicated in the presence of others. It was during these periods of voluntary solitude that I realized something profound: solitude is not about avoiding people or rejecting the world. It is about discovering a deeper connection with oneself.
In my quiet moments, I often found myself hoping that others could experience the same peace I was experiencing. It wasn't that I wanted them to isolate themselves; rather, I wished they could stop chasing after the dreams and goals that were imposed upon them by society. I wanted them to experience the joy that comes from self-discovery and from living a life driven by their own values, not the ones dictated by others.
The Struggle with the 'Unsolvable' Problem
As I’ve spent more time in solitude, I’ve found myself wrestling with an interesting paradox. The more I reflect, the more I want to help others find the same peace and fulfillment in solitude that I’ve experienced. But I’ve also realized that it’s not something that can be easily given or taught. It’s not a simple formula or a set of instructions to follow. There is no universal solution to the struggle between societal pressure and personal fulfillment.
This realization has led me to an ongoing struggle in my work and life. I constantly seek new ways to help people achieve their dreams, not the dreams that society tells them they should pursue, but their own authentic dreams. The desire to “solve” this problem—to find a way to guide others towards personal fulfillment—is both exciting and frustrating. It is a challenge that doesn’t have a clear answer, and often, it feels like I’m trying to solve the unsolvable.
The Role of WERULE in My Solitude Journey
As the founder of WERULE, I have dedicated myself to helping people create lives they can truly own. At the heart of my mission is the idea that we are all capable of breaking free from the societal narratives that hold us back. However, this work is not easy. The challenge lies not in the external environment, but in the internal world of each individual. What I have learned from my own solitude is that true change comes from within.
In many ways, WERULE was born out of my desire to help others reconnect with themselves and find their own path. However, the tension between wanting to help others and realizing that personal transformation can only happen when individuals are ready for it, is something I continue to grapple with.
The Power and Paradox of Solitude
Finding Clarity in Silence
One of the most beautiful aspects of solitude is the clarity it brings. Away from the noise of the world, it becomes easier to hear your inner voice. The distractions of everyday life fade away, and what remains is a pure sense of self-awareness. It is in these moments of silence that we are most likely to uncover the truths that guide our decisions and shape our lives.
However, the paradox of solitude is that while it offers clarity, it also often leads to a deeper questioning of our place in the world. The more we connect with ourselves, the more we may realize how disconnected we are from others. It can lead to feelings of loneliness, even as it offers the potential for profound insight. This is where Aristotle’s distinction between a "wild beast" and a "god" comes into play.
Embracing the Tension
The tension between solitude and connection is not something that can be easily resolved. We all need time alone to grow, reflect, and recharge. At the same time, we are social beings who thrive on relationships, collaboration, and shared experiences. It is this balance that we must learn to navigate.
As I reflect on Aristotle’s quote, I realize that it is not about choosing between being a “wild beast” or a “god.” It is about embracing both aspects of ourselves. We must allow ourselves the freedom to explore the depths of solitude while also remaining open to the beauty of human connection. The challenge lies in not losing ourselves in either extreme.
FAQ Section
What is the meaning behind Aristotle’s quote?
Aristotle’s quote suggests that those who find joy in solitude are either deeply enlightened (gods) or dangerously disconnected from society (wild beasts). The quote speaks to the dual nature of solitude as both a source of personal growth and potential alienation.
Can solitude be healthy for everyone?
While solitude can be incredibly beneficial for self-reflection, creativity, and mental clarity, it is important to recognize that it’s not for everyone in the same way. Some people may find excessive solitude isolating, while others may thrive in it. It’s all about balance and understanding your own needs.
How do you reconcile the desire for solitude with the need for human connection?
This is an ongoing struggle for many. Solitude can provide clarity and personal growth, but it’s important not to lose sight of the need for connection. Finding balance is key—taking time for yourself when needed, but also nurturing meaningful relationships with others.
How has solitude shaped your life?
For me, solitude has been a space for self-discovery, creativity, and inner peace. It’s also led to deeper insights into how I can help others find their own path in life. However, it also brings its own challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing independence with the need for connection.
