i am writing while waiting for nigel to come online; having given up trying to finish middlemarch tonight. i am struck and staggered by the sheer affirmative power of this book, which i think ought to be compulsory reading for all humanity-- instead of the trite sentimentality that pretends towards redemptive philosophies on life-- such as 'Tuesdays with Morrie,' which is really, i have no words for the pathethic-ness of that book. (which i have read, by the way, so i have full right to knock it.)
the sense of a grandeur within human nature that infuses every one of us, the affirmation that every action is understandable, every individual forgivable and pitiable-- it is a remarkable rallying-cry for kindness and warmth that is sorely needed, especially today. we don't need canned tripe or simplistic and childish 'love conquers all' nonsense-- here is a considered and realistic view of optimism, which does not simply affirm or tout pretty ideals but posits a thoroughly valid philosophy for making the world better; and which takes as its first assumption the fact that the world is far from perfect, that it is really imperfectible, and that human contact is frustratingly difficult to establish. it calls for a more thoroughly emphatic view to be held towards all people-- even the most perceptibly odious and contemptible have their private griefs, their personal tragedies, uneasy truces with conscience- that we all do share. and while in this humanistic world all people get their just desserts, they are not unmitigated by that forgiveness and human companionship which is the only quality by which redemption can come.
so then the most lowly peasant can grope his way to salvation: not through any egotistic 'self-improvement' or through any grand narratives or political ideals-- but rather through his most basic instinct for fellow-feeling, which although by nature approximate is the best approximation to action and the most exalted of all feelings.
and in this age of increasing isolation and loneliness it is perhaps apt that we look to these sages once again: if i would i could buy everyone i knew a copy of this book-- this, if any book may be rated as such, has the real, earthy, life-changing power that we perhaps have need of in this world.
mellie contemplated 9:35 AM
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