There’s something provocative about being invisible. Acting unseen can release us from the insecurities and social restraints that encourage us to live life tamely. Whether in role-play, quiet observation or imagining the world through someone else’s lens, the power of disguise can give us a heart-pounding rush. What we really hope to gain from this secrecy is freedom. No wonder superheroes wear masks and teen flicks feature so many masquerade proms: Disguises put a space between our person and our persona. (This might also explain the wild abandon we feel at Halloween parties.) This story is from Kinfolk Issue Nineteen Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 19 The Best Policy Sometimes we talk to each other without feeling heard. Honesty—a most intimate interaction—can be just as thrilling as its more devious inverse. Arts & Culture Issue 19 A Sense of Suspense With unhinged imaginations and mountains of cliff-hangers, the filmmakers behind the sci-fi podcast Limetown have all the makings of a scary story. Arts & Culture Issue 19 Like Clockwork In this new column about time, we learn how slipping off our watches makes us feel like deadline-damning renegades.
Arts & Culture Issue 19 The Best Policy Sometimes we talk to each other without feeling heard. Honesty—a most intimate interaction—can be just as thrilling as its more devious inverse.
Arts & Culture Issue 19 A Sense of Suspense With unhinged imaginations and mountains of cliff-hangers, the filmmakers behind the sci-fi podcast Limetown have all the makings of a scary story.
Arts & Culture Issue 19 Like Clockwork In this new column about time, we learn how slipping off our watches makes us feel like deadline-damning renegades.