and how Whitman's poetic practice might
profit from a
"Peircean" reading.
Dear Jeff,
This caught my attention. So I says to myself, what is a Peircean
reading. And just now all I can think of is an attention to quality (form),
reaction (such as a poke in the ribs) and continuity. And what is the
quality of being Whitmaneque if not a poke in the ribs and the continuity of
all things? I'm trying to think of that passage from song of myself where
Whitman exalts the sign democracy.
I do think there was something in the language and culture of times that
animated a common spirit in these three contemporaries. And that each in
his own way celebrated the form, substance, and continuity of what is best
in the American way. Plus each exhibited an intense pragmatistic
mindfulness of the consequences of one's acts. Seen from a distance they
were soul mates, profoundly ethical, robust, spritual souls -- emblematic
of the American soul. We know this because these are the aspirations they
stir in us. But facts I ain't got any.
All of the above just an attempt to share some of my enthusiam and support
for your project. I hope you keep us posted.
Best wishes,
Jim Piat
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