As the render is to the building, and the blueprint to the machine, so sport is to social existence

As the render is to the building, and the blueprint to the machine, so sport is to social existence

Will Self, a prominent British author and journalist, has often explored the complex relationship between sport and social existence in his works. In his writing, Self delves into the ways in which sports serve as a reflection of society, shaping and being shaped by the cultural, political, and economic forces at play. The quote "As the render is to the building, and the blueprint to the machine, so sport is to social existence" encapsulates this idea, highlighting the integral role that sports play in the fabric of society.

Self's exploration of the intersection between sport and social existence is evident in his novel "Great Apes," where he imagines a world where humans have evolved from apes and apes have become the dominant species. In this alternate reality, sports serve as a means of social control and expression, mirroring the power dynamics and hierarchies present in human society. Through this satirical lens, Self critiques the ways in which sports can both reinforce and challenge societal norms and values.

Furthermore, Self's non-fiction writing often delves into the cultural significance of sports, examining how they shape our identities, relationships, and communities. In his essays and articles, Self explores the ways in which sports can unite or divide us, bringing people together in shared passion and competition, while also reinforcing stereotypes and inequalities.

The quote "As the render is to the building, and the blueprint to the machine, so sport is to social existence" suggests that sports are not just a form of entertainment or leisure, but a fundamental aspect of our social fabric. Just as the render gives form and texture to a building, and the blueprint guides the construction of a machine, sports shape and define our social interactions, values, and beliefs. In this sense, sports are not just a reflection of society, but an integral part of it, influencing and being influenced by the broader cultural, political, and economic forces at play.