More Cynicism

It's odd and interesting to degree to which cynicism can genuinely offend people. I suppose it represents a threat to our ability to deceive ourselves, a threat that, for some, must be quashed at all costs. Hence that curious sense of desperation, of wilful denial, that is so often apparent beneath the promotion of various manifestations of positive psychology.

But life is so much richer when we take cognisance of all its aspects, that is, insofar as we are capable of facing a little of the reality which ultimately we cannot bear. When Zappa's Oh No segues into the instrumental that follows we are treated to one of his most gloriously ebullient melodies, radiating a good natured humour and acceptance, in perfect balance with the mordancy of the lyric we've just heard. It's intoxicating (I've had the tune in my head all day, despite having known it for years) and life-affirming.