Leila Kubba Kawash 1997. Self-gratification by the erection of everlasting monuments to vanity intends to immortalize individuality. That such status arises only in a social context is rarely recognised. Individuals, however great they may consider themselves, are transient and essentially social constructions.
Power requires numbers, domination followers.
Perhaps the vision to go beyond the normal, to take steps into the unknown, to attempt the impossible is a characteristic they share. Such visions need not offer sense, or logic, or even achievables, but merely the promise of change or a new beginning which often strikes a chord inside the breast of mortal man. We yearn to make our mark, to have fame, a purpose in life, to live in some way forever - even by reflected glory. Yet despite our best efforts failure is certain, our monuments crumble, our memories fade, we return to dust. A new form of organization submerges the civilisations we built, the past is transcended and ever transformed into a new beginning.