Points Of Friction
Feb 2024 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
136
Pages
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About this ebook
Excerpt: "When Mr. Bagehot spoke his luminous words about "a fatigued way of looking at great subjects," he gave us the key to a mental attitude which perhaps is not the modern thing it seems. There were, no doubt, Greeks and Romans in plenty to whom the "glory" and the "grandeur" of Greece and Rome were less exhilarating than they were to Edgar Poe,—Greeks and Romans who were spiritually palsied by the great emotions which presumably accompany great events. They may have been philosophers, or humanitarians, or academists. They may have been conscientious objectors, or conscienceless shirkers, or perhaps plain men and women with a natural gift of indecision, a natural taste for compromise and awaiting developments. In the absence of newspapers and pamphlets, these peaceful pagans were compelled to express their sense of fatigue to their neighbours at the games or in the market-place; and their neighbours—if well chosen—sighed with them over the intensity of life, the formidable happenings of history."
About the author
Agnes Repplier (1855-1950) was an American essayist renowned for her wit, incisive commentary, and eloquent prose. Born in Philadelphia, Repplier's literary career spanned over six decades, during which she established herself as a formidable voice in American letters. Her essays often tackled the cultural and social issues of her time, blending erudition with a sharp, often humorous critique of contemporary mores.Repplier's work was characterized by a deep appreciation for classical literature and a staunch defense of the essay as a literary form. She was a prolific contributor to prestigious magazines such as The Atlantic Monthly and Harper's, where her essays garnered a wide readership and critical acclaim. Her writing was marked by a conservative yet progressive stance, advocating for intellectual rigor and cultural literacy while also championing women's rights and education.One of the most intriguing aspects of Repplier's career was her ability to engage in public intellectual debates. She was unafraid to challenge the prevailing opinions of her time, whether it was critiquing the suffrage movement's tactics or defending the value of a classical education against the rising tide of utilitarianism. This willingness to speak her mind earned her both admirers and detractors, making her a somewhat controversial figure in literary circles.Repplier's influence extended to contemporary writers who admired her clarity of thought and stylistic elegance. She was a mentor to many young writers and maintained correspondence with literary giants such as Henry James and Edith Wharton. Her legacy is one of intellectual bravery and a commitment to the power of the written word, making her a timeless figure whose work continues to resonate with modern readers.
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