Any symbol has the power to change the minds of those who view it. A symbol is even more powerful if that symbol has associations not explicitly stated in the depiction itself.
Abstraction is the means to compress information, and is one of the most powerful means of sharing ideas. Associations build around symbols and spontaneously become astral attractor fields (memes – in the broad sense of the word).
When crafting symbols, be aesthetic, and be clear on what the symbol means to you. To clarify: it is not initially important what a symbol means to others. Never craft a symbol with others in mind. First, have a clear idea of what it means TO YOU.
Obviously, what it means to others will rapidly become important. But without knowing its inherent associations, an abstract symbol is lacking in initial potency.
The modern American flag is a powerful symbol. However, it is a diffused symbol, meaning that it has widely different connotations for different people. It may represent pride, angst, suffering, patriotism, comfort, nostalgia, confusion, happiness, sadness or a host of other things. But those who crafted the symbol initially had a clear idea of what it meant TO THEM, and this formed the foundation of the edifice of the symbol.
The symbol makers in charge of society work overtime to produce powerful symbols, and you should do the same.
We desperately need a better and clearer class of symbols, ones that resonate with an integral ethos, and that serve the aims of the 21st century hyperborean man.
The creation, cultivation and diaspora of symbols is a MAJOR activity of mankind. Take care in crafting your symbols and examining what the symbols you encounter may represent, and what they mean to you.
Don’t let your symbols be defined by others, or limited to half-assed memes. Cultivate and propagate. Let the best symbols win.