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"When forgetting the rules of the game" , by Erik Pevernagie, (100 x 80 cm) Oil and metal on canvas. .xxx

Rules can be followed. They can be bypassed. They can be forgotten.

In the "game" of life, rules maintain social cohesion, allowing for shared understanding and participation. They build the framework within which we can interact tellingly, and they can procure enjoyment, giving structure to chaos.

Social butterflies like flitting around and are eager to break limits and push boundaries when they perceive rules as outdated or restrictive. They embrace variability and renewal and want to transform and reevaluate inherited norms, reshaping them in the light of new realities.

Rules are established to create order, but they contain the seeds of either sailing ahead or mutinying. Their stringiness may cause frustration or alienation and often creates tension between the stability they provide and our systematic urge to transcend them.

Rulemaking and rule-breaking depend on ongoing negotiations between tradition and innovation. Rules can be both a basis for social interaction and a cause of restraint. Constant reflection and adaptation ensure that they remain significant and reasonable.

Creating alternative ways of living, innovative rules, or new games of life requires collective support. We need shared adherence if we don’t want to remain segregated or stay on the sidelines.

Liberty may be so frightening and grueling that many don't conceal their passion for rules and regulations, which can relieve a feeling of security and protection.

Instead of breaking or cherry-picking the rules, many only follow the inner rules instilled during their lifetime and have subtly permeated their thinking. They value rules because they offer the ravishment of a securing, ceremonial rhythm in life. They also prevent them from breaking free from their cocoon, even more so because freedom can be scary and exhausting.

Every rule has an exception, which can be given as a consolation prize, especially to those who forget the rules.

Phenomenon: Rules and game