An act of self preservation
Chronos time vs Kairos time
The ancient Greeks I believe thought of the concept of time in two ways: Chronos and Kairos. Chronos time was calculated quantitatively while Kairos was measured in qualitative terms. We are all familiar with Chronos since that is how time is understood all over the modern world. But what really interests me is how time is comprehended in the Kairos way.
The Greeks considered Kairos as the time to do something new. Kairos is supposed to be spontaneous and intuitive where everything aligns perfectly. This then makes it a powerful and meaningful experience. For me personally, Kairos time is about spontaneous photography moments on the streets, sights out of my office window and around home. These moments are a source of inspiration through which photography becomes an emotional outlet.
A portrait of any city is a portrait of a photographer too. The subjects I choose to photograph reveal some part of my soul. Capturing images of one’s city is a journey of self-discovery and of personal growth. I think who we are and the experiences we have had in our lives, influence how we notice things and respond to them. I have lived in my city (Hyderabad, in South India) for more than 35 years. While I cannot help being frustrated with a busy city life, I have to admit that there is a sweetness and a familiarity I feel with everything that makes it what it is.
One can easily find moments of solitude amidst the city’s chaos. The everydayness of it, the stories, emotions and dreams all interconnect in a beautiful way. To be one with the soul of the city through its colours, chaos and people is rewarding. When I photograph at the traffic signals or from the car I find joy in the randomness of a street sight. I look for parts of everyday scenes that I can photograph with some artistic value.
When things become overwhelming a pause, a break and an escape into my photography world gives me respite. In my Kairos time, I meet myself – quietly and uninterrupted. This is when all the creative thoughts arise and linger on. With the over emphasis on hyper productivity and deadlines in a Chronos time frame, I remind myself that Kairos moments are all about self- care. To pursue something one loves, is an important act of self-preservation that enables one to live a more creative and fulfilling life.
Your photographs demonstrate Kairos beautifully.
For me, Kairos is the time to write and read. Chronos is usually my working time, although I also do it with pleasure.