Seeking Attention

(Published in Banking Services Chronicle September 2008)

Why does one write or publish a magazine? It may be plainly for making money. Or it may be prompted by the urge to express oneself. Or it may have an altruistic motive behind it. Whichever may be the motive behind writing, there is one thing in common. One writes in order to seek attention for otherwise none of the motives mentioned above can be achieved.

Seeking attention has been a natural phenomenon down the ages. Even birds and beasts do it. The dog begins to wag his tail to draw the attention of his master. The peacock flares his iridescent blue-green feathery tail to create an impression on the female of his species.

The humankind has its own ways of seeking attention. Wearing jewellery has been an age-old practice, especially on auspicious occasions when large crowds gather. These days people flaunt mobiles, watches and cars, depending on what they can afford.

Apart from material possessions, speeches and actions are also used to seek attention. Politicians like Amar Singh and the Thakres are masters of the art of making provocative statements. As a group of parties, the Left is adept at seeking attention. Though it seldom has more than one trump card, it knows when to play it. It is little bothered even if it holds the country to ransom.

People know how to perfect the art of seeking attention, which is much like wearing a miniskirt. What it reveals is attractive but what is conceals is vital. And it is in striking this balance that the charm lies, the art flourishes.

One should remember, however, that most of these means of seeking attention are short-lived. They are fleeting like fashion. To embrace them is to revel in the five minutes of fame that an appearance on TV brings.

The time-tested way of seeking attention is through merit. It may take time to come in the limelight through this route but it endures. Think of any successful person worth his name and you will get the proof.