antisyzygy means the presence of dueling polarities within one entity, thought of as typical for the Scottish psyche and literature. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 87 out of 100.
Why “antisyzygy” is a great word
ANTISYZYGY — [Noun] The dynamic and unresolved union of opposing forces within a single entity, psyche, or national character. From anti- ("against, opposite") + syzygy (from Greek σύζυγος, "yoked together"), coined in 1919 by G. Gregory Smith in 'Scottish Literature: Character and Influence'. Unlike a paradox, which resolves into insight, or a duality, which suggests a static split, antisyzygy denotes a generative quarrel of warring principles. It is the Calvinist sermon delivered with baroque ornament, the bleak moor giving way abruptly to a lush glen, and the soul capable of dour pragmatism and unearthly lyricism—the identity forged not in unity, but in perpetual, fruitful contention.
noun
- The presence of dueling polarities within one entity, thought of as typical for the Scottish psyche and literature.