If you read nothing else today ...
... read this:
In the Theater of Isak Dinesen.
The Cardinal is taking it upon himself to explain, rather grandly, the impact of his story, an intricate one about a docile young princess who gradually learns the pleasures--and dangers--of independence. Though insisting on the reality of his account, the Cardinal is drawing his listener's attention to the exaggerations. A story, he suggests, is a vital form of expression: it offers not just a record of experience but also a vision of potential. And its truth is inextricably connected to its theatricality.
Consider it having been dutifully and obediently read (and thoroughly enjoyed).
ReplyDeleteI cannot find words to express how much Isak Dinesen's Seven Gothic Tales and Winter's Tales mean to me. Some things really are inexpressible.
ReplyDeleteYour high praise suffices to send me immediately to my library's online catalogue in order to obtain copies of Dinesen's tales, which I will then set about reading for the first time as I have not read anything of hers previously.
ReplyDeleteAlthough you avow that you "cannot find words to express how much Dinesen's" tale mean to you, I would nevertheless be most interested in hearing some of your words if you should be willing to find them and share them.
ReplyDelete