earnest creativity

The origins of its modern meaning “trace back to West African traditions, where concepts like ‘itutu’ (Yoruba for ‘coolness’) symbolized spiritual composure, grace under pressure, and quiet strength.” This concept was later leveraged by African Americans, who used coolness “as a coded survival mechanism — a way to maintain dignity, expression, and... See more

The takeaway is fairly clear: sincerity is back and we’re re-entering an era of earnestness.