Faced with images of war.
How can we still communicate these days? They weigh heavily on us and burden every attempt at normal communication. In every image, every statement. Every piece of information and every emotion, whether intended or implied. The question resonates: Is communication even possible anymore? Can we, do we want to, should we, are we allowed to say this or portray something else?
War and images of war shape everything: every image, every word, every sign, every utterance, no matter how small. War is always there, influencing everything and how we perceive it: every word, every image, and above all, every action and every decision.
Of failure.
This is terrible for everyone, including us. As communicators, communication as we understand it is about understanding. We convey messages and thus mediate between people. We seek to achieve understanding and establish connections. With a better outcome for everyone. This is one of the opposites of war. But in this sense, communication no longer exists in war. Communicators have given up here. They have left the field.
And now?
Can we allow ourselves to do this: Should we still write, here in this blog and elsewhere? Is that still possible: Is “normal” communication even possible now?
Yes, we must.
Precisely because this is the case, we cannot and will not give up. Because we want and must achieve understanding again. People must be able to talk, write, speak, and show themselves to one another. They must exchange ideas, listen, and understand one another. Our topics and content are just as important today as those of others before us. Especially now. Because this is how we can maintain structures and, in the best case, improve them and the processes involved.
As Germans, anyway.
Let us remember: terrible wars originated in Germany. We were glad when others spoke to us again and we were able to show that we understood and had changed.
Working toward this, preparing for such a situation, creating it—that is definitely a good goal.
And that is why we are continuing.
In the words of Kahn: ever onward.
