Deleuze: Concepts

Correlation of Nomadic War Machine and Itinerant Metallurgy

The concepts of the nomad war machine and itinerant metallurgy are intricately linked, suggesting that the movement of peoples and the processes of metallurgy are not merely contemporaneous but are interdependent phenomena.


  1. How does the State apparatus interpret and utilize the war machine?

    • These inquiries reveal a significant ambiguity regarding the term "object," suggesting a deeper interrelation between these concepts.

Concepts of Space

The distinction between smooth space and striated space plays a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of spatial organization. Smooth space is characterized by its nomadic, flexible, open, and constantly changing nature. In contrast, striated space is sedentary, rigid, organized, and defined by fixed boundaries. These spaces often exist in complex mixtures, where one can transform into another; for example, when organizing a desert (smooth), layers of striation are added.


Artistic Expressions

Art also reflects these concepts. In nomadic art, a distinction emerges between haptic and optical art; the former relates to close-range vision that aligns with smooth space, while the latter concerns long-distance perception that corresponds with striated space. Movement and representation are vital in understanding space, especially through abstract lines.


Overview

The text provides a philosophical exploration of concepts related to music, sound, chaos, and the essence of the "refrain."


Understanding the Novella Genre

The essence of the novella revolves around the question: "What happened? Whatever could have happened?" In contrast, tales pose a different central question that focuses on the future: "What is going to happen?" Novels encompass elements from both novellas and tales, portraying a continuous present that evolves over time. The detective novel merges these concepts, often revolving around a core event, such as a murder or theft, that is revealed throughout the narrative.


Concepts of Desire

Desire is redefined to encompass not only familial influences but also various social investments that shape individual motivations, portraying desire as a complex interplay of internal drives and external conditions. Analyzing desire necessitates consideration of the socio-economic, political, and cultural environments that influence individual motivations, emphasizing the interconnectedness between identity and context.


Key Concepts and Theories

The war machine exists outside of State apparatus, with mythology, epic tales, drama, and games being the first sources to discuss it. Political sovereignty operates through two archetypes: the Magician-king (Rex or Raj) and the Jurist-priest (Flamen or Brahman), which are antithetical yet complementary, forming a dual sovereignty critical for governance. In the context of mythological roots, Georges Dumezil's study refers to key Indo-European figures, highlighting that political powers often include opposing pairs such as clear/obscure and violent/calm. Importantly, war is not confined within a state and can exist independently through various means, leading to the distinction between police and warriors. As a phenomenon, the war machine predates State regulation and law.

The nature of the war machine represents a multiplicity that is capable of transformation and fluidity, contrasting with the fixed and regulated nature of State power. This is exemplified through figures like Indra, who undermine State sovereignty and build relationships with women and animals, promoting a mode of becoming that surpasses dualistic definitions.

In a comparative analysis, the games of chess and Go highlight different aspects of governance and war. Chess symbolizes State governance with its codified pieces and definitive structure, while Go embodies war’s fluidity, with pieces that rely on strategic situational placement and embrace complexity without direct confrontation.

Emergence of the BwO

The concepts of pleasure, pain, and desire redefine bodily experiences by intensifying what it means for a BwO to function within the body. Psychoanalysis is seen as restricted and regressive in its approach, often failing to liberate the self as Artaud’s focus transcends traditional paradigms, emphasizing raw experiences. The creation of a BwO involves phases of sewing and flogging, symbolizing its construction and the flow of experiences. However, there is a risk; if one fails to cultivate a BwO successfully, it might become devoid of intensities or devolve into chaos. Destratification poses dangers, as excessive disruption can lead to a loss of self or even death, indicating that pleasure and avoidance always carry inherent risks.


Examples of Rhizomatic Structures

Culturally, Western society tends to embody tree-like structures, characterized by clear hierarchies, while Eastern perspectives may be more aligned with rhizomatic systems that promote adaptability and transformation. Contemporary social and organizational forms often reflect rhizome concepts, with American culture showcasing dynamic and non-hierarchical movements like the Beatniks and various underground movements.