September 01, 2004
A Stairwell, Stare Well
If my poor pun offends, I plead late night delirium. Below is just a picture I took today of the stairwell in Dallas Hall, the building where I have all my classes.
That was a great picture. Loved the play of the light on the sinuous form of the banister. It is, however, clearly a castration metaphor.
Sorry about that, couldn't help that last line -- go see this post for explanation (not meaning to pimp my own blog, just quicker this way): http://randompensees.mu.nu/archives/042087.php
Now put the camera down and get back to your reading! :)
Thanks. I know what you mean about the politicizing of art criticism, though. As I'm sure you're aware, it's pretty common in English lit crit as well. I find it a little annoying since I'd rather discuss other, more interesting aspects like metaphor, symbols, and allusions. Of course, it does have its place, but it seems to be disproportionately represented. That, and trying to understand an author's work based on their biography. So and so had this happen to them as a child, so, as a result, they write these sorts of poems. It might have some bearing, but it's so reductive that it just can't account for everything.
Anyways, my early morning rant...
Agreed. Reductive to the point where anyone can find anything. Like a castration image in your picture.