Journey of steps
Dr Shakira Nandini
This seemingly ordinary glimpse is, in fact, a profound reflection of life, journey, and human aesthetics. It blends human nature with ancient Portuguese philosophy, becoming a riddle with hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Portuguese philosophy, known for its depth, spirituality, and aesthetic sensibility, views this image as a representation of the flow of time and human struggle. The step, advancing along a stony path, is a symbol – an apparent moment that is, in truth, a story of a journey transcending time and reality.![Journey of steps]()
According to Portuguese poet and philosopher Fernando Pessoa, life is a continuous struggle, a dream in which every moment creates a new thought and a new reality. The choice of shoes, the style of heels, and the rough surface of the path all reflect different aspects of life. This image invites an internal dialogue, compelling the viewer to ponder how they walk on their own path. Is this journey one of self-discovery or simply an attempt to align with the flow of time?
Aesthetics hold fundamental importance in Portuguese philosophy. Much like the streets of Lisbon and Portugal’s ancient buildings, this image represents a beauty that blends simplicity with complexity. The interaction between the pointed heel and the stones depicts a balance between grace and stability. It’s a moment that presents beauty not as a solid reality but as a dreamlike experience, where each step creates a new scene.
Ancient Portuguese philosophy emphasizes the capacity for thought about one’s identity, life’s meaning, and beauty. This image, at first glance a common scene, raises profound questions that lie at the foundation of the human experience. The shoe strap holding the foot becomes a symbol—Is it the bondage of freedom, or a means of protection? Does it enhance the beauty of the foot or attempt to conceal it?
The concept of time is also crucial in Portuguese philosophy. Time, like a flowing river, never halts. In this image, the step and path represent the flow of time. The stony path reflects the struggles of the past, while the raised heel symbolizes hope, guiding the individual toward the future.
In Fernando Pessoa’s words: “We are what we are not, and they are not what we could be.” This image reflects the internal and external contradictions of humanity, where each step creates a new possibility, while also leaving behind an old reality.
This image not only invites the viewer to appreciate aesthetics but also urges contemplation of the deep questions that reside in all of our hearts. It doesn’t just define beauty but transforms it into a philosophical dialogue that explores the complex dimensions of time, journey, and existence.