I like to talk about different subjects because then you give the

In the words of Roddy Ricch, "I like to talk about different subjects because then you give the people a chance to really digest something, and then take whatever they associate themselves with at the time," we hear the voice of an artist who understands the power of variety and engagement in shaping the minds of his audience. His approach to communication is not just about delivering a singular message, but about offering a range of ideas, each of which allows the listener to connect with the subject matter in a way that is both personal and relevant. This is a philosophy that transcends the art of music—it speaks to the deeper, more universal truth that diversity in thought and perspective enriches the human experience, allowing each individual to find meaning where they can relate it most.

The essence of Ricch’s statement is the belief that true communication occurs not when we impose one truth upon others, but when we create an environment where ideas can breathe and be internalized in unique ways. To talk about different subjects is to provide the space for listeners, or followers, to process the information, to reflect on it, and to find personal resonance. It is the difference between a teacher who presents a single lesson and one who offers a spectrum of knowledge, giving students the opportunity to explore and engage with what resonates most deeply within them. Just as ancient philosophers like Socrates used dialogue to explore different subjects, allowing his students to come to their own conclusions, Ricch’s approach invites individual thought, encouraging the audience to participate actively in the conversation.

Consider the teachings of Confucius, who spread wisdom by speaking on ethics, morality, and relationships, yet always encouraged his followers to find the path that best suited their personal character. His versatility in addressing a range of topics allowed his students to absorb lessons from different angles, encouraging them to digest and reflect, and to take from his teachings what best suited their needs at the time. Confucius understood that the human experience is multifaceted, and that people grow in understanding not by being handed a singular truth, but by being given the tools to develop their own wisdom.

In the same way, Ricch’s quote touches on the importance of relatability—the idea that when you talk about various subjects, you invite people to connect deeply with what is most relevant to them in that moment. The listener or viewer becomes an active participant in their own learning, choosing to take in whatever resonates with their current state or experiences. This is the gift of choice in communication. Just as an artist paints with many colors, offering the observer a spectrum of interpretation, so does Ricch’s multifaceted approach allow the audience to create their own meaning from the diverse subjects being discussed.

Take, for example, the ancient art of storytelling. Heroes like Homer did not simply tell a linear story, but embedded within the Iliad and the Odyssey were multiple themes: honor, betrayal, sacrifice, and identity. Each listener could find a personal connection to different aspects of the tales, whether they were struggling with their own honor or reflecting on the challenges of their own journeys. In this way, storytelling offered more than entertainment—it offered the chance to reflect on one’s own life, to find meaning and wisdom in the tale being told. Ricch’s desire to speak on a variety of subjects mirrors this tradition, offering a rich canvas from which listeners can choose what speaks to them most deeply.

Moreover, Ricch’s philosophy reflects the power of timing—the idea that the relevance of a subject is not fixed but evolves with the listener’s context. There are moments in life when certain subjects or lessons resonate more strongly than others. Aristotle spoke of the Golden Mean, the balance between excess and deficiency. In the same way, Ricch’s approach to communication is an exercise in finding balance—offering a range of ideas and allowing the audience to choose what best aligns with where they find themselves at that point in time. This is a powerful way to ensure that the message is not just heard, but felt, and that its impact is lasting.

The lesson here is clear: diversity in thought and subject matter invites deeper engagement and personal connection. In our own lives, we can follow Ricch’s lead by offering those around us the space to digest different ideas and perspectives, allowing them to reflect and choose what resonates most with their current journey. Whether in our conversations, in our work, or in our artistic expressions, we must remember that true communication is not about forcing a singular truth but about offering a wide range of ideas and allowing others to find their own meaning within them. Just as Homer and Confucius shaped minds through their multifaceted teachings, we too can influence the world around us by encouraging diverse thought, reflection, and connection.