Monthly Archives: April 2015

Whitman’s Poem a Lesson for War Hawks

In “The Wound-Binder,” Walt Whitman refuses to glorify war and only shows its bloody aftermath–a good thing to remember on the 150th anniversary of the Civil War’s final day.

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America, a Land in Perpetual Search

The hero of Neil Gaiman’s “American Gods” shows America how it can live in perpetual search. Insisting that the country look a certain way leads to violence.

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A Fantasy about U.S. Thirst for War

Neil Gaiman’s “American Gods” understands the thirst of those Americans that want to go to war with Iran.

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“Jane Eyre” Still Challenges Us

“Jane Eyre” was radical when it came out and it continues to challenge us today with its assertive women.

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Out of the Blackness Every Morning

Many of Mary Oliver’s poems, including “The Sun,” function well as Easter poems.

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The Cross Recounts the Crucifixion

“Dream of the Rood” tells the story of the crucifixion from the cross’ point of view.

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The Love Songs We Hear Every Spring

Scott Bates finds song birds more entertaining but ultimately opts for silent swans, who mate for life.

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Social Media, Our Modern Day Pillory

Social media has become the pillory of the 21st century, shaming people the way Hester Prynne is shamed in “The Scarlet Letter.”

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