"The door was still ajar" , by Erik Pevernagie, oil on canvas, 100 x 50 cm

A door that is still ajar creates a contingent situation. It can arouse a feeling of expectation or a sensation of unrest. It can generate hope if one expects to meet somebody. It can create turbulence if the door was expected to be closed.

We may be disturbed when a door is ajar. A door should be closed or open. But being ajar produces an unclear circumstance.

In front of an unclear situation one may be hesitant, distraught or helpless. It is however essential to make up one’s mind fast. One should deal with it or forget about it. If one keeps on standing in front of a door that is ajar, one can destroy one’s mind.

Destructive thinking patterns and indecisive conduct should be thrown overboard. If not, the Buridan’s syndrome will strike soon.

The Buridan’s ass is placed equally between a stack of hay and a pail of water. The ass will die of both hunger and thirst since it cannot make any decision to choose one over the other.

Phenomenon: Indecisiveness, open, closed .

Factual starting point of the picture: Woman, door.