Monday, November 15, 2010

Hardcore Parkour

What gives an object its meaning? One cannot define an object in terms of itself, the definition of an object is a reflection of all the things it isn't. Presence is defined by the absence. Standing is the act of occupying space; walking is to lack a place. A city is designed around movement, walking specifically. Standing on a busy corner instantly outs the offender in society's eye, for he has disrupted the flow of walk-traffic. I wonder how this perspective applies to one of my favorite hobbies, parkour.
The goal of parkour is the practice of of artfully moving from one space to another and generates a unique sense of spatial awareness.
Recently, univeristy police have kicked parkour clubs off campus, and officers of the city have warned traceurs because of their hobby. I find symbolism in the fact that moving through space makes one not have a place, and the police tell them what they're doing is illegal.

1 comment:

  1. This was interesting to say the least. Your ideas on Parkour as an unwanted part of society are well deserved. I think the last passage which questions the mystique of Parkour in our society could lead to a larger piece.

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