An Exchange and Discussion about the stories in EINSTEIN'S BEACH HOUSE by Jacob M. Appel

Sunday, February 12, 2023

IDEAS GOOD & BAD & MOVING ON

I would not characterize my entries as "annoyed." Rather, I was disappointed, because I think you are smart, and quite capable of original ideas, as well as grasping the ideas of content that you read. So far, I see no evidence of that in your entries, no acknowledgment of a discussion written and shaped entirely for your benefit.

The question now, is whether you have read "CRY AND HUE" and are there things you think are effective in the narrative? How does Appel approach plot? Is this simply a narrative, or is the author trying to make a point? I will hold back my specific thoughts on the merits and features of this story until you read and post about it.

I hope you bothered to go the link provided for examining the issue of the difference between stories and essays, to read that article.

By the way, if you wish to focus on essays, then that's fine. But try to read some really excellent essays. Anything by David Foster Wallace is exemplary and fun to read. His collection of essays Brief Interviews with Hideous Men is a masterpiece of narrative essays teeming with literary devices and tricks. 

I would also suggest that another feature of Wallace's work is satire. Satire can transform our perspective of reality and dig deep beneath the surface. I find Wallace's literary skill astonishing. He should be better known, more widely read.

From what I have observed in our various exchanges is that you might have a gift for satire.

By the way, an annoying shortcoming of this Blogging App is that you must select your Font style and Font Size each time. I have been setting the Font as Verdana and the font size is Medium. There should be a way to make that part of the Blog's default, but for now, try using those settings.

Please give titles to your entries that characterize the content of your entries. It's good practice.

 

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