Ben, I loved your writing about being "equal to the challenges of freedom".
I reflected, as I read that, rather than the sage "giving shape" (to other humans), I'd like to imagine each of us "giving space" to one another --within the challenges/potentialities of freedom. [Are there 'boundaries' to freedom that are baked into the challenge?] (I asked ChatGPT5 that question and the response floored me).
The older I get, the more I appreciate the deep and nuanced gift of the oral tradition. There is little in all of the humanities (to me) more riveting and reflectively inspirational than a good story, well told.
Thanks, Renee! I teach English at Yukon University and in that I try to engage not only with orality in the classroom—making dialogue the core of learning, instead of essay-writing—but in the tradition of literature itself. After all, the roots of writing ("The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" are good examples) are first in speaking and singing.
When I saw your play about Rewandan child soldiers in London a few years ago I knew I was looking at the work of a great writer. I’m delighted you are now close to publishing. Looks like a great retreat. Onwards and upwards. Liz B x
Ben, I loved your writing about being "equal to the challenges of freedom".
I reflected, as I read that, rather than the sage "giving shape" (to other humans), I'd like to imagine each of us "giving space" to one another --within the challenges/potentialities of freedom. [Are there 'boundaries' to freedom that are baked into the challenge?] (I asked ChatGPT5 that question and the response floored me).
The older I get, the more I appreciate the deep and nuanced gift of the oral tradition. There is little in all of the humanities (to me) more riveting and reflectively inspirational than a good story, well told.
Peace and grace, r
Thanks, Renee! I teach English at Yukon University and in that I try to engage not only with orality in the classroom—making dialogue the core of learning, instead of essay-writing—but in the tradition of literature itself. After all, the roots of writing ("The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" are good examples) are first in speaking and singing.
Hope you're well!
Thanks Ben.
This is a very interesting article. It gave me something to think about. I’ll check out the interview.
Linda
When I saw your play about Rewandan child soldiers in London a few years ago I knew I was looking at the work of a great writer. I’m delighted you are now close to publishing. Looks like a great retreat. Onwards and upwards. Liz B x
Thanks, Liz! Appreciate your kind words. Hope you're well!
Fine thank you. I meant every word. Looking forward to seeing future publications.