Fletch
I'll Lock Up
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Aren't they more often known by slightly more positive (potent? valorizing? masculine?) terms - mavericks? trailblazers?vonwotan said:I think perhaps I misunderstand the definition we are each using for eccentric or eccentric behavior. I have always associated it with genius or creativity - behavior that is out of step with societal norms and seen in some highly successful individuals.
To me, another connotation of eccentricity is that it is not adaptive, productive, or of lasting value. I think of eccentrics as people with might have done great things—if they'd gotten it together.
Esther Dyson might once have been eccentric, but has now achieved too much.
Howard Hughes, OTOH, let it take over his life - to the point where it was his money doing good things, not him, and so he qualifies.