Digest

This podcast episode features a conversation with Werner Herzog, a renowned filmmaker, poet, and author. The episode begins by exploring the role of the poet in society, questioning whether poetry offers deep truths about the world or something different. Herzog then shares his perspective on the universe as a chaotic and hostile place, not made for human survival. He discusses the challenges of space exploration and the importance of preserving Earth. Herzog introduces his concept of "ecstatic truth," which involves seeking truth in a way that forces us to step outside ourselves. He emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in life through this pursuit. He also discusses the power of poetry to express truths that language cannot fully capture, sharing a personal anecdote about his journey on foot from Munich to Paris. Herzog expresses his deep concern about the disappearance of languages, arguing that it is a catastrophic loss of cultures and worldviews. He highlights the importance of preserving these languages for future generations. He believes that poets play a crucial role in holding civilization together, sharing his experience walking around the borders of Germany before reunification. Herzog discusses his approach to filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of letting subjects reveal themselves through observation and empathy. He rejects the "fly on the wall" approach, believing that filmmakers should actively shape and guide the narrative. He shares some of his unfulfilled film projects, including a film about twins who spoke in unison and a grand vision of the conquest of Mexico from the Aztecs' perspective. Herzog reflects on humanity's self-destructive tendencies and the fragility of civilization. He believes that humanity's existence on Earth is not permanent and that we will eventually disappear, similar to the dinosaurs. He explores the question of whether the internet dreams of itself, drawing inspiration from a Prussian war theoretician's statement about war dreaming of itself. He acknowledges the profound implications of this question for artificial intelligence and the future of technology.

Outlines

00:00:00

The Role of the Poet and the Nature of Truth

The episode begins by exploring the role of the poet in society, questioning whether poetry offers deep truths about the world or something different. It explores how poetry distinguishes itself from philosophy and science.

00:00:42

Introducing Werner Herzog

Sean Elling introduces his guest, Werner Herzog, a renowned filmmaker, poet, and author. Herzog is known for his films like Grizzly Man and Fitzgeraldo, but considers himself primarily a poet and writer.

00:01:11

Herzog's Perspective on the Universe

Herzog shares his view of the universe as a chaotic and hostile place, not made for human survival. He discusses the challenges of space exploration and the importance of preserving Earth.

00:01:53

The Quest for Ecstatic Truth

Herzog explains his concept of "ecstatic truth," which involves seeking truth in a way that forces us to step outside ourselves. He emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in life through this pursuit.

00:22:22

The Power of Poetry and Language

Herzog discusses the power of poetry to express truths that language cannot fully capture. He shares a personal anecdote about his journey on foot from Munich to Paris, where language seemed to break down. He also expresses his deep concern about the disappearance of languages, arguing that it is a catastrophic loss of cultures and worldviews.

00:31:23

Poets as the Glue of Civilization and Filmmaking

Herzog believes that poets play a crucial role in holding civilization together. He shares his experience walking around the borders of Germany before reunification, believing that only poets could truly unite the country. He also discusses his approach to filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of letting subjects reveal themselves through observation and empathy. He rejects the "fly on the wall" approach, believing that filmmakers should actively shape and guide the narrative.

00:40:40

Unfulfilled Projects and the Search for Stories

Herzog shares some of his unfulfilled film projects, including a film about twins who spoke in unison and a grand vision of the conquest of Mexico from the Aztecs' perspective. He discusses how he finds these stories and the gravitational pull they exert on him.

00:48:07

Humanity's Fragility and the Future of Technology

Herzog reflects on humanity's self-destructive tendencies and the fragility of civilization. He believes that humanity's existence on Earth is not permanent and that we will eventually disappear, similar to the dinosaurs. He explores the question of whether the internet dreams of itself, drawing inspiration from a Prussian war theoretician's statement about war dreaming of itself. He acknowledges the profound implications of this question for artificial intelligence and the future of technology.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is "ecstatic truth" and how does it relate to Herzog's work?

  "Ecstatic truth" is a concept coined by Herzog, referring to a pursuit of truth that forces us to step outside ourselves and experience it in a profound and transformative way. It involves a quest for deeper meaning and understanding beyond mere facts. Herzog seeks to capture this ecstatic truth in his films and writings, aiming to illuminate the human condition and inspire a sense of wonder.

• Why does Herzog believe that poets are essential to civilization?

  Herzog believes that poets play a crucial role in holding civilization together through their ability to express profound truths and connect with the human spirit. They provide a sense of unity and purpose in a fragmented world. He sees poetry as a force that can bridge divides and inspire a shared sense of humanity.

• How does Herzog approach filmmaking differently from traditional documentary styles?

  Herzog rejects the passive "fly on the wall" approach to filmmaking, believing that directors should actively shape and guide the narrative. He emphasizes the importance of letting subjects reveal themselves through observation and empathy, creating a more profound and revealing experience for the audience.

• What are some of the unfulfilled projects that Herzog wishes he had completed?

  Herzog has a long list of unfulfilled projects, including a film about twins who spoke in unison and a grand vision of the conquest of Mexico from the Aztecs' perspective. He is drawn to stories that explore the human condition and the mysteries of the universe, and he continues to seek out new and challenging projects.

• What is Herzog's perspective on humanity's future and the role of technology?

  Herzog believes that humanity's existence on Earth is not permanent and that we will eventually disappear, similar to the dinosaurs. He is concerned about the fragility of civilization and the potential for self-destruction. He sees technology as a powerful force that can both enhance and threaten our existence, and he encourages a cautious and thoughtful approach to its development.

Show Notes