Chapter 1: The Virus That Remains

Where did the perilous virus disappear? In truth, it hasn't gone anywhere; it continues to exist and evolve as expected for a typical virus. Just like the virus, people adapt to their circumstances, as is natural.

The virus remains overlooked, neglected by those who once fervently followed it. Meanwhile, public outcry has shifted focus, not because the new concerns are more valid than previous ones, but because it is the nature of hysterics to seek attention through dramatic displays that yield no tangible results.

Paranoids, too, are busy constructing conspiracy theories involving various actors, not because they have uncovered hidden truths or held the government accountable, but because they have found yet another opportunity to express their suspicions and unveil their perceived realities, shedding light on what they believe is a society of oblivious individuals.

For those steeped in a perpetual anticipation of punishment due to unfounded guilt and toxic shame, the expectation of retribution persists, albeit with a changed narrative. The threat of the "virus" failed to alleviate their enduring sense of guilt. They eagerly seized upon a new rationale to indulge their deep-seated desire for suffering.

Individuals with an immature mindset, shaped by a consumption-oriented culture, experienced profound psychological distress during the virus outbreak. Lockdowns and restrictions struck at the heart of their neurotic tendencies, which were anchored in the act of consumption itself—dedicating themselves fully to the acquisition of material goods. As reality transformed, new meanings and objectives emerged, ones that were unfamiliar and unclear. This is not to suggest that earthly pleasures should be exchanged for lofty spiritual ideals, but rather that methods of attaining these earthly joys must evolve. In a consumption-driven ideology, the joy derived from ownership has been supplanted by the thrill of acquisition, intended for later display.

Through collective effort, the "simulacrum" as a perceived value has been preserved. Yet, the reality is shifting dramatically. In this new landscape, the joy of showcasing consumption will necessitate a different type of consumption—perhaps a more sustainable one—or risk descending into another form of neurosis, one characterized by regret over the past and a search for scapegoats.

The virus remains, living its life as it should. The real question lies in whether individuals—though I hesitate to use the term humanity—are prepared to acknowledge their errors, or if psychological defenses such as denial and rationalization will prevail.

The narrative of the virus amidst sweeping global changes could serve as a pivotal opportunity, facilitating a rapid reduction in one’s neurotic tendencies. All that is required is an acknowledgment of past mistakes and a willingness to confront the irrational beliefs that contributed to them. Just imagine the psychic energy that could be liberated from the void of anxiety, previously maintained at a certain level. This energy could be redirected towards adapting to a new reality, empowering individuals to take control of their lives rather than remaining subservient to "the misguided notions of so-called intelligent people."

Alternatively, one could choose to escalate their neurosis to a psychotic level, remaining trapped in that state indefinitely.

Chapter 2: The Psychological Shift