Alexandra Konstanti

Recently I have read an interview from Gué Pequeno who is one of the most popular rappers in Italy these days. In Italian Vanity Fair, he conveyed: “Only by staying ahead of the rapid changes brought by the digital world can you achieve success in today’s rap industry. In other words to become the Highlander.”.

The rule of this cinematic reality was that only one immortal could exist in the world. That’s why the movie’s tagline was: ‘There can be only one.‘

So, in today’s world, to be a modern Highlander, you must outpace the competition to become the one and only in your field.

Commentary on Immortality

The concept of immortality has long fascinated humanity, sparking countless stories and explorations of what it means to live forever. One of the most iconic representations of immortality comes from the legend of Dracula. In 1921, the first film about Dracula was released: Drakula Halála, an Austrian silent movie. Dracula’s immortality hinges on his need for the blood of others to survive. Over the decades, this notion of the nocturnal, immortal creature has evolved, taking on new dimensions and reflecting deeper themes.

Vampires, as immortal beings, have not only been depicted as bloodthirsty monsters but also as complex figures seeking human connection and love. This evolution can be seen in works like the Japanese manga series Vampire Knight (2004), the American series True Blood (2008), and the widely popular film Twilight (2008). The 2000s, in particular, saw a “vampire frenzy,” where stories of these immortal beings dominated popular culture. Each of these works explores different facets of immortality—the loneliness of eternal life, the desire for love, and the constant struggle with the darker aspects of existence.

The allure of immortality stems from a deeply rooted human curiosity: What would it be like to live forever? This idea conjures up both fantasy and philosophical questions. The fear of time passing, of aging, and ultimately, of death, could theoretically be eliminated. But would immortality be a gift or a curse? Can we achieve immortality in some form?

Commentary on the One and Only

The second branch of this exploration of immortality is the superhero concept. The idea of a unique being who overpowers the rest and fights for justice or against villains has existed in human consciousness since ancient times. Humanity has always felt the need to believe in someone or something greater—a figure endowed with superpowers who can protect the weak and uphold righteousness.

The first modern superhero is widely considered to be The Phantom, created by Lee Falk on February 17, 1936. However, Zorro is often argued to be the first true superhero. Donning a mask and wielding his sword, Zorro fought for the rights of the weak and the poor, becoming a symbol of justice and revolution.

Highlanders in today’s Culture

The path to success in today’s world, whether for a rapper, entrepreneur, or any driven individual, often mirrors the journey of the Highlander. It’s about staying ahead of the curve—embracing the technological and societal changes to create something unique and impactful. The key is to offer something fresh, innovative, and relevant that resonates with the world, often before it even realizes it’s needed. It’s a blend of vision, timing, and daring creativity that defines true success.

Much like the Highlander, who fought for immortality through trials, triumphs, and countless losses, those who aim for greatness today face their own battles. The Highlander’s immortality came with a steep price—endless challenges, solitude, and the constant pursuit of the next step. Similarly, in today’s fast-paced world, success often demands sacrifices. The climb is lonely, the competition fierce, and the need to stay one step ahead never ends. Those striving to be the “kings and queens” of their industries must navigate constant pressure, evolve with the times, and often outlast their rivals.

Historically, many have sought immortality—whether in the form of a legacy, lasting fame, or the impact of their creations. Greatness, in this sense, has always been tied to how one’s work, ideas, or influence continues long after their death. The impact on humanity, the creation of something transformative, is what grants this form of immortality. The names of those who have achieved this are etched in history, their deeds and creations forever alive in the minds and hearts of generations.

But today’s “Highlanders” seem to be chasing both: the pursuit of fame and the wealth that often accompanies it. Money gives freedom and power, but fame offers a form of immortality, a way of being remembered. And while the tools available to today’s entrepreneurs and creators might seem vast—thanks to technology and global connectivity—this very access also raises the stakes. The world has become highly competitive, and standing out has never been harder. While everything may seem “invented” or explored, the challenge now is to reimagine, reinvent, and make the existing world better.

Being a modern-day Highlander isn’t easy. It requires constant evolution, resilience, and a relentless drive to stay ahead of the curve. And the price remains the same—a ceaseless journey of reinvention and triumph, always striving for the next big breakthrough. Do we really need it? Do we really need these hectic rythms of life to achieve grant success? Does humanity need superheroes in various fields nowadays? Or the urgency for immortality always remains relevant?

Do you think you’re striving to achieve some form of immortality in your life?