The myth of the tortured genius

Humility and goodness

Sir, – A great piece by Finn McRedmond where she explores the cliché of genius being narcissistic and cruel (“Do you have to be cruel to be brilliant?”, Opinion & Analysis, February 3rd).

The films Tár and Whiplash, and many more, put forward this negative view.

I would suggest a look at the people who bring artistic beauty to us all – it’s a very long list – all of whom you would be privileged to meet. Joyce, Barenboim, Argerich, Heaney, Chopin – the list is endless. Creativity with intelligence, humility and soul. – Yours, etc,

DAVID HOLBROOK,

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Dublin 3.