Simplicity
I am currently reading a book about the Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi and how one can bring it into one's life. I'm not going to go into great detail around the concept but suffice it to say that one of it's many interpretations can be 'simplicity'. To me it seems that fencing is ripe for simplicity. Many fencers over-complicate things and forget that it is the basics that really work best. For instance, a simple lunge when at the right distance can be devastatingly effective, particularly on your opponent's preparation. A parry riposte when executed in time will bring positive results time and again. Any simple technique well done will usually reap rewards.
But there is another type of simplicity; that of simplicity of thought. If you let your mind become overcomplicated with emotions and strategies you will be encumbered by it. If you can de-clutter your mind so that it can react readily to the situations a fight presents then you will have more chance of being successful. In some ways, the way you fence gives away much about your character. Would you rather be flustered, panicky, over-aggressive, lacking in forethought or would you rather be calm, controlled and effective? Bit of a simple question to me.....
But there is another type of simplicity; that of simplicity of thought. If you let your mind become overcomplicated with emotions and strategies you will be encumbered by it. If you can de-clutter your mind so that it can react readily to the situations a fight presents then you will have more chance of being successful. In some ways, the way you fence gives away much about your character. Would you rather be flustered, panicky, over-aggressive, lacking in forethought or would you rather be calm, controlled and effective? Bit of a simple question to me.....