After reading the first chapter of the book An Open Life, an interview-style book by Michael Toms in which he interviews Joseph Campbell, I must say I’m surprised at how often Campbell references Mexico—or, more specifically, Ancient Mexico.
Campbell shares his insights into his world at the time to archetypal myths from various cultures. In just the first chapter, he discussed extensively the Aztec and Mayan myths, even denoting how their strong beliefs became their downfall when they mistook the arrival of Cortez as the hero to their problems, blinding them to what was actually going on.
That’s just one example, but he also mentions the pyramids in Mexico and their significance to the world. What caught my interest was how he described the myths of Mexico, almost as if, dare I say, they are of extreme relevance to the entire planet’s history. Or perhaps he’s simply suggesting that there is much to learn from Mexico’s history and geography.
Whatever his thoughts or intentions about Mexico, it matters little to me, but knowing that someone I have deep admiration and respect for has as much interest in the country I seek to reinvent is a nice feeling.
It further increases my desire to learn more about what Mexico has to offer and to visit its historical sites, especially its pyramids, such as the Temple of the Cross in Palenque and the Temple of Inscriptions, and the figure buried inside the tomb.
His references to Carl Jung and Friedrich Nietzsche in the first chapter also give me reassurance on a personal level, making me believe I am on the right path toward something meaningful.
In the words of Campbell, I will continue to follow my bliss.