I wouldn't call myself 'into the DJ scene.' I have friends who
I wouldn't call myself 'into the DJ scene.' I have friends who are DJs, like James Murphy. I was really into the DJ scene at his wedding. But generally, I'm not at the clubs. I've never been to a rave.
In this reflection, Greta Gerwig speaks of belonging, identity, and the delicate dance between community and individuality. By saying she is not truly “into the DJ scene,” she reveals a truth known to many souls through the ages: one may appreciate a world without being of it. She honors her friends, such as James Murphy, who live and breathe in that realm, yet she remains a traveler passing through, savoring moments like the joyous music at his wedding, but not fully dwelling there. Her words are a testament to the freedom of knowing oneself and resisting the pull to conform to every current of popular culture.
The origin of this sentiment lies in the eternal challenge faced by humankind: how to balance connection with independence. From the ancient Greek philosophers who gathered in the agora, to the modern artist who walks among musicians and creators, there has always been a tension between the tribe and the self. Gerwig’s honesty shows that true friendship does not demand total immersion. She does not reject the DJ culture or the energy of clubs and raves; rather, she respects them while walking her own distinct path. This is a lesson in authenticity, reminding us that to love others is not to dissolve into them.
History offers a clear example of this balance in the tale of Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-emperor of Rome. Though surrounded by the pomp and power of the imperial court, he often retreated into quiet contemplation, writing his Meditations to remind himself of inner truths. He attended the festivals, councils, and banquets required of his station, but he never allowed himself to be wholly consumed by them. Like Gerwig at her friend’s wedding, he engaged with the world joyfully when needed, yet remained rooted in his own deeper calling.
Gerwig’s mention of never having been to a rave symbolizes more than a simple choice of pastime. It speaks to the wisdom of boundaries. In every age, there are grand gatherings—whether ancient gladiatorial games, medieval feasts, or modern nightclubs—that draw crowds into collective frenzy. These spaces can offer joy and catharsis, but they can also overwhelm the soul if entered without clarity of purpose. By knowing what she enjoys and what she avoids, Gerwig demonstrates the strength of self-knowledge, a virtue as prized by sages as by artists.
Ultimately, her words teach us to celebrate diversity of experience. One need not be a DJ to honor the music, nor a reveler to honor the celebration. Just as a traveler passing through a foreign land can admire its wonders without claiming it as home, so too can we engage with different worlds without surrendering our true nature. In this, Gerwig offers a gentle reminder: belonging is not about where you stand, but about how you stay true to yourself amidst the songs and lights of others.
NNVan Minh Nhat Nguyen
I can totally relate to Greta Gerwig’s take on the DJ scene. It’s nice to hear that she can enjoy the experience in certain settings like weddings without feeling pressured to engage with the broader club culture. It makes me wonder, how many of us are drawn into scenes because we think we need to 'belong' to them, even if we don’t actually enjoy the core aspects of those cultures?
TH13.Tran Thi Thu Hoai
Greta Gerwig’s perspective on the DJ scene shows a balanced approach to cultural participation. She doesn’t feel the need to be a constant part of the club or rave scene but enjoys it when the moment calls for it. It makes me wonder—how important is it to maintain balance in our engagement with social scenes? Can we appreciate the highlights of a subculture without feeling the need to fully commit?
TNTram Ngoc
Greta Gerwig’s comment is a great reminder that not everyone feels the need to immerse themselves in every trend or subculture to feel connected. Her experience at James Murphy's wedding shows how one can appreciate a scene without fully diving into it. It makes me think, is it possible to enjoy and appreciate aspects of a culture without feeling pressured to be a 'part of it' in a more permanent way?
DDo
I find it amusing how Greta Gerwig describes her relationship with the DJ scene. It shows how someone can be open to new experiences without being fully immersed in that culture. It raises a question—does the pressure to be ‘into’ specific scenes, like the DJ or rave culture, lead to a sense of alienation for people who prefer a more laid-back approach? How much does society push us to fit into certain molds?
TDtra dao
Greta Gerwig’s perspective on the DJ scene is interesting. She mentions enjoying the DJ experience at a wedding but not being interested in the club or rave culture. It makes me think—how much do we shape our identities around specific scenes or subcultures? Can we be part of something without fully subscribing to it, or does that mean we’re not truly part of it?