Monthly Archives: May 2023

Faulkner Understood How Racism Works

By Robin Bates | Published: May 31, 2023

Faulkner helps me understand my past growing up in the racist south. Sadly, he’s still relevant.

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June Is Short and We Must Joy in It

By Robin Bates | Published: May 30, 2023

Irish poet Ledwidge’s “June” is a carpé diem poem that takes on special meaning given that the author died in World War I.

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Moby Dick and Whales with a Grudge

By Robin Bates | Published: May 29, 2023

Orca boat attacks are causing me to rethink “Moby Dick.”

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A War Hero Who Derided Memorials

By Robin Bates | Published: May 28, 2023

World War I poet Sassoon lambasts those who think that war memorials pay off the debt to those who gave their lives.

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Cormorant Delivers Pentecostal Message

By Robin Bates | Published: May 27, 2023

When it comes to hearing the Holy Spirit, Derek Walcott finds it easier in Trinidad than in Boston.

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In Censoring Gorman, We Censor Hope

By Robin Bates | Published: May 25, 2023

Buckling to rightwing pressure, a school has banned Amanda Gorman’s “Hill We Climb” from elementary students. My 8-year-old grandson loved it.

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Reading “Jabberwocky” to a Dying Child

By Robin Bates | Published: May 24, 2023

Reasons why a mother might read “Jabberwocky” to a dying child.

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The Bard Fails to Prevent Genocidal Horror

By Robin Bates | Published: May 23, 2023

Can Shakespeare break through to genocidal maniacs. O’Brien wrestles with this question in “Little Red Chairs.”

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As in 1984, Neo-Fascists Redefine Freedom

By Robin Bates | Published: May 22, 2023

Many on the extreme right are defining “freedom” in ways that Orwell would recognize.

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