THIS is apropos of the letter by Sajjad H. Channar (Oct 26). The nexus between depression and creativity has convincingly been posited by the writer, on the psychological premise that depression descends on people with sensitive dispositions who then experience motivation of creative impulses, e.g Edgar Allan Poe, Ernest Hemingway, Von Vogh , Michelangelo and S.T. Coleridge . I am of the view that the theory owes its validity in the perspectives of western culture and ethos characterised by secular and rational values.

On the face of it, our society witnesses a different behavioural off-shot of that depression syndrome. Depression-prone persons, particularly educated ones of the middle strata of our society, are more inclined towards religion, ritualism and superstitions seeking inner solace and satisfaction.

In this process such persons tend to become averse to science, art, literature and philosophy altogether. There is no denying the fact that contemplation and creativity in these domains of human activity not only provides a sense of personal satisfaction, self-actualisation but also enrich the human intellectual and artistic assets.

An equally important fact is that the religious/spiritual experience too provides satisfaction, courage and endurance in these times of troubles and tragedies, but lacks creativity, ingenuity, innovation, inventions and discoveries.

Artistic pursuits such as poetry, music, dance, sculpture and painting are discouraged and disparaged by religious persons and institutions, giving rise to an orthodox, rigid and intolerant anti-culture. That is why our society apart from political and economic malaise has degenerated and deprived of collective happiness.

ABAIDUR REHMAN

Faisalabad