Sebastian

Loyalty

Many times when one perceives an individual as being loyal, the person is conceptualized to possess distinctive attributes. Being faithful to relationships and causes and remaining devoted despite circumstances commonly classifies loyal qualities. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, loyal is when one is capable of “giving or showing firm and constant support or allegiance to a person or institution.” It is believed that loyal individuals will unconditionally provide support and their presence will be unwavering. As a result, being a staunch supporter of self or others is typically understood as a positive personality characteristic. However, when one is loyal, one may struggle to consider new information, adjust one’s thoughts and beliefs, and make changes to one’s behaviors due to the commitment to a specific individual or cause. In response, the loyal one may present as rigid and unable to be flexible in thought, hindering one’s ability to adjust appropriately when needed. Sebastian, performed by Ryan Gosling, within the film La La Land,demonstrated the positive and negative impact loyalty can have and how these attributes may manifest in one’s life based upon the ability to approach life circumstances with pliability.

Sebastian was introduced as a musician committed to his craft. He identified himself as a “serious musician,” defined as an individual who appreciated and supported the traditional form of jazz. Despite being keenly aware that in current society there exist a small population who appreciate the traditional work, Sebastian’s…