this post was submitted on 30 Oct 2023
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I'm always annoyed by vandalistic names carved into trees and rocks and monuments wherever I visit. I don't think that's admirable or should be appreciated.
You may be going too broad
That's why I started my opinion with "one of the things" that makes good art. Another set you clearly pointed out is time and place. The fact is that people do not value negative outcomes or feelings. I think being aware of it, and why you're annoyed or feel hate, is very important. The thing that annoys you about tree carvings tells me what you care about. Defacement of nature and public monuments is also a statement and also art whether you enjoy it or not. There is always something to glean from the negative.
Roman's left their names all over the place as tourists, ancient Egyptian workers left graffiti at their worksites, and Pompeii basically used walls as message boards.
I'm conflicted, on one hand I love that people want to leave a trace of themselves behind. That feels beautiful in a way, even if I think the message they leave is silly. It also leaves something for our ancestors to hopefully find if something happens, and that's delightful to think about.
On the other hand, I loath selfish entitled people.