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Absurdism, a philosophical and literary movement that gained prominence in the mid-20th century, is closely associated with the works of existentialist thinkers like Albert Camus and literary figures such as Franz Kafka and Samuel Beckett. Existentialism and absurdism share some common themes, such as the exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning, but they approach these themes differently.

Existentialism, as a broader philosophical movement, is concerned with the individual's experience and existence in the world. It emphasizes freedom, choice, and personal responsibility. Existentialists, like Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard, examine how individuals create their own values and meanings in a world that lacks an inherent, pre-established purpose.

Absurdism, a specific branch of existentialism, takes a more focused look at the inherent meaninglessness and irrationality of the world. It underscores the absurdity of human existence and the tension between the human desire for meaning and the apparent meaninglessness of the universe. While existentialists often seek to find meaning through individual choices and personal values, absurdists confront the fact that ultimate meaning may be unattainable.

An iconic example of absurdism can be found in Albert Camus' essay "The Myth of Sisyphus," where he introduces us to Sisyphus, a character condemned to push a boulder up a hill for eternity, only to watch it roll back down. Camus argues that Sisyphus can be seen as content because he recognizes the absurdity of his task, and his unwavering commitment to it represents an act of rebellion against the absurdity itself, which becomes a source of personal meaning.

The concept of absurdism is often described in three stages:

Recognition: The initial stage involves acknowledging the intrinsic absurdity and meaninglessness of the world.

Rebellion: In the subsequent stage, individuals choose to live authentically, seeking their own personal significance even in the face of the absurd.

Acceptance: The final stage is marked by finding contentment in embracing life's struggles, even in the absence of ultimate meaning.

Absurdists critique those who resort to "philosophical suicide" by adopting religious, ideological, or philosophical systems that offer false or oversimplified meanings to life. They argue that the true path is to confront the absurd without seeking false consolation.

In conclusion, absurdism, a subset of existentialism, challenges conventional beliefs about the purpose and rationality of existence. It encourages individuals to confront the inherent absurdity of life, to rebel against it by seeking their own meaning, and ultimately to find contentment in the very act of living, even when ultimate meaning remains elusive.

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Poem

To see the world through brighter eyes, I strive, reminding myself to smile, to feel alive, it's okay to laugh, to embrace joy's embrace, Yet I struggle to feel, like an average face.