6 years ago, when I first started applying to business schools, I was asked by a particular school to write an essay about taking a cross-country drive with three people of my choice (dead or alive). They were interested in knowing who I’d pick, why, and what sort of conversations would take place. Here is the essay:
Even as I pack my duffel bag with its bare necessities, I ponder over the journey to come. Today I embark on a trip unlike others I have been on. This journey is more symbolic, more astounding, and definitely more significant. Although bordering on the realms of fantasy, this voyage drips with a possibility so tangible, that it takes my breath away. A cross-country drive in a classic Ford Shelby in the company of my choice? It does not get better than that. Our history is dotted with prominent individuals who have left their mark on our future, and picking out a group from this ensemble is a hard choice to make.
I roll out of my drive way, all packed and ready, my shining Shelby roaring in anticipation of the miles ahead. I best make haste, as the road calls out to me, and I yet have to make three pick ups – the three guests of honor who will join me on my drive.
My first companion waits solemnly on the side walk. There is an aura of peace about him. His serenity is alluring and mesmerizing. Although long deceased, Jiddu Krishnamurti appears healthy and in good spirit. I open the door and guide him into the front seat. Krishnamurti was a famous Indian philosopher, raised by prominent theosophist Annie Besant. He was an influential voice on matters regarding education, global culture, and philosophy. He founded the Rishi Valley School (among others), the school which I graduated from. I have always believed that I imbibed a sense of what Krishnamurti discussed – especially his ideals on simplicity, culture, and nature. His philosophies transcend traditional educational expectations, and his schools portrayed his visions of simplicity, extracurricular indulgence, and non-competitiveness.
My next accomplice is already waiting. He huffs his pipe impatiently, aggrieved by our lateness. His crisp
suit, neat hair, and British oomph set him apart from others around him. He too has left the real world, leaving a legacy behind. They call him “The father of advertising”. David MacKenzie Ogilvy seats himself comfortably in the back seat, appreciating the machine of choice for the road ahead. Ogilvy was the pioneer of modern advertising. His understanding of the global customer and his needs were revolutionary. His work is study-worthy for any aspiring youngster in the field. I look up to him as a mentor. His creativity is inspirational, and his achievements were unassailable. His global views and perceptions altered the modern outlook on business, marketing, and advertising.
Finally, I pick up the last of our troupe. This young-at-heart maverick leans against a wall, smoking a cigarette nonchalantly. He spots my car, picks up his rucksack and jumps into the backseat. Anthony Bourdain acknowledges the presence around him in his typical brash style. He does often come across as arrogant, but beneath the facade is a person with deep understanding of the gritty world as it is. He is a passionate traveler, a culinary connoisseur, and a renowned chef. A true New Yorker, he lives the fast-paced life, but stops every once in a while to take in his surroundings. His ideals on global culture are appealing to me, and his blatant dossier on the world is insightful and humorous. He is an ambassador for travel, food, drink, and culture.
The car is packed now, filled up physically and intellectually. The achievements of the three individuals are beyond doubt. What each person represents is also unique and amazing. However, what makes this group spectacular is the well-rounded combined outlook on life and culture. Each individual provides a contrast on subjects related to culture (especially on a global scale) and people. I would be the center of this triangle of knowledge. I would learn from each differing viewpoint on the array of subjects before me.
Krishnamurti would talk about the simplicity that is required in life, and how materialism has clogged the mind from normal functioning. Here, Bourdain would agree, rigidly putting down commercialism. Ogilvy would then calmly defend consumerism in his own brand of old-school know-how. He would talk of the building of society and economics, and how commercialism is but a natural process.
One of the most fascinating facets to the discussions would be on culture. All three are global visionaries, taking on a united stance on culture. Krishnamurti would talk about philosophy and education with respect to culture. Ogilvy would provide a global outlook on culture, touching upon consumers and products. Bourdain would add a fresh perspective to the discussion, with his humorous and cynical take on life in different parts of the world. His counterparts are intellectually superior, but his gritty physical experience of the world sets him in good stead. Thus, combined, a beautiful canopy of healthy discussion on culture and life would develop.
The journey has been long and winding, but every moment is enjoyed thoroughly. The guests stoke each others knowledge, beliefs, and ideals. Not a minute is wasted in baseless banter. Each topic of discussion is engaging and challenging, and most importantly, pertinent to the world around us. Society, culture, nature, philosophy, and business ideals are scrutinized and dissected. Not a stone is left unturned. This miraculous journey has united cultural masterminds from different eras and continents, resulting in a colorful repertoire of meaningful dialogue.
Roddam 