 In Dewey’s explanation, the expressive act is set off by “an impulsion”, a state of unsettlement in the organism, which creates a need to restore a state of balance. Impulsion, as distinguished from “impulse”, is a developmental movement of the “whole organism” in response to a need arising from interaction with the environment, for example a craving for food (AE: 64). It is the beginning stage of a complete experience, whereas impulse is momentary, for example a tongue reacting to a sour taste. Impulsion leads to reflection on the possible means and actions for restoring a state of harmony and a decision to act accordingly, like in the case of finding some water to satisfy one’s thirst. The reflective movement caused by the impulsion also makes the creature more aware of itself. “Blind surge” turns into “a purpose” and “the resistance” the creature faces when trying to complete the impulsion “calls out thought” and “generates curiosity” (AE: 65). The act of expression involves similar mental undertakings, which precisely makes the emotive impetus behind expression closer to an impulsion than a reflexive type impulse. It is as if something requires squeezing out or pressing forth, that is expression (AE: 70). Out of this expression the expressive object gradually takes shape.