The title Earworm plays on both the literal and figurative meanings of the term. Literally, the images evoke the sense that one person is removing an earworm, a small creature that might burrow into the ear—a concept that can be traced back to ancient folklore. Metaphorically, earworm refers to a tune or song that gets stuck in one’s head, looping endlessly in the mind. This dual interpretation allows the series to operate on multiple levels, merging the physical act of touching the ear with the psychological idea of something penetrating the mind and influencing thoughts.
In Jungian psychology, the ear symbolizes receptivity and the ability to hear the whispers of the unconscious mind. The act of touching another’s ear in these candid moments can be seen as an attempt to connect with, influence, or even cleanse the unconscious mind—much like removing an imagined earworm. This gesture, captured on the streets, transcends its surface-level simplicity to become a metaphor for the deeper psychological connections between individuals.
The public setting adds another layer of meaning. These are not isolated incidents but are part of the collective unconscious that shapes our communal experiences. By focusing on a behavior that is both common and overlooked, this series invites viewers to consider the shared rituals and unconscious impulses that bind us together. The touch of an ear, performed without conscious thought, becomes a ritual of connection, echoing the shared myths and symbols that unite us—like a song everyone knows but no one can remember where they first heard it.
While the actions documented here are spontaneous and unposed, they reveal an unexpected intimacy. The ear, often overlooked, becomes a focal point for human connection. The hands that reach out to touch it may do so playfully, affectionately, or curiously, yet each gesture is a bridge between the conscious and unconscious, the personal and the collective—like an earworm that transcends its origin to become a part of the collective mind.
