"There are many books, television programs and films that, for a variety of reasons, catch my interest. Infrequently, however, something not only catches my interest, but thrills me as well (interestingly enough, it needn't always be a work of art; a good essay may do the same); in short I have a supreme artistic experience. When it happens, though, it's certainly worth it: suddenly I feel moved to tears, not emotionally, or not only that (I can be moved by the silliest things, as you can) - it's more like sudden happiness. My tears are oddly mingled with laughter and they have a common source: a delight in the truth, in the supremacy and authenticity of communication; a sensation of great joy has nothing to do with whether the work is sad or gay. Part of this, of course, is a physiological abreaction to constant stress and tension, yet at the same time, it is an experience purely 'in and of itself,' supremely spiritual and meaningful on its own terms. Even the delight it brings is pure, that is, independent of any particular interest, purpose or circumstance. The joy comes from total inner identification; one has been smiled upon, unexpectedly, by something from the mysterious essence of the 'order of the spirit' and the 'order of Being.' More than that, one has actually been called upon to partake in a 'feast': in short one has shared in something crucially important, been totally involved in it. Characteristically, this 'cultural' good mood can make many bothersome, exhausting, or at least preoccupying matters suddenly seem unimportant and trivial."
Vaclav Havel
Letters To Olga
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