On Solitude

Is that loneliness truly solitude? And does loneliness equate to solitude? This book affirms solitude. Innumerable stories of friendship, romance, and beautiful connections exist. They are wonderful. However, if they are wonderful, should solitude, as the opposing concept, be rejected? Solitude and solidarity can coexist. And each possesses its own unique beauty. Without being swayed towards "one or the other," we can, at times, be connected yet solitary, and affirm our solitude. In times of natural disaster or war, people are urged to connect more, and division is lamented. Yet, differences are differences. It is difficult to determine which is right and which is wrong through competition. Or perhaps, such a determination should not be made. With our inherent differences, we are born alone and die alone. A society that realizes the diversity of individuals simply existing is a society that embodies true diversity. Furthermore, when solitude is depicted positively, it is often portrayed as the affirmation of lofty, aspiring isolation. Of course, such solitude should also be affirmed, but here we also affirm the smaller, more intimate solitude we experience in our daily lives, the solitude of being alone. Conversely, this book criticizes forms of solitude that should be avoided, such as social isolation, bullying, and poverty. We do not believe that being alone is inherently sweet, devoid of any bitterness. Even those who cherish solitude may still feel loneliness or emptiness. Solitude is not solely defined as extreme isolation, completely severed from all societal ties. It is for those who wish to live without losing their human sensitivity. To those who love solitude just as much, we wish to convey: "Your solitude is valid."