On writing
Tue, 2008-02-19 06:47
#1
On writing
Tue, 2008-02-19 06:47
#2
quote:
Writing, as many people know, is an instrument of expression that lacks speed, tone and the intonation of spoken language, and it doesn’t use gestures. It also takes several times our scarce-available time. Writing has the advantage that it can been done at any time, day or night, but one doesn’t know who will read it; very few can resist the temptation to improve it, to include what was not said or to cross out what was said; sometimes one has the urge to throw it all in the waste basket since you don’t have the interlocutor there in front of you. (Fidel Castro Ruz)
[url=http://monthlyreview.org/castro/index.php]January 14, 2008[/url]
Tue, 2008-02-19 08:39
#3
Interesting, since Fidel is the master of the spoken word and I wouldn't think writes much of anything.
He doesn't need to.
When I say master of the spoken word, I'm not referring to his legendary oratory. He is a master at conversation with one or a few people... and I figure that is one reason so many writers have warmed to him.
Tue, 2008-02-19 08:51
#4
You'll like this Martin.
My conversation with Fidel was about women's liberation... which as a movement per se was still new to everyone in 1970.
I don't think I said a word except when Fidel made an attempt to draw me in. I was very young and aware enough to follow, but too stunned to have an opinion, let alone speak.
Fidel used the opportunity to inform himself on what the new North American women's movement was about. I noticed how much he encouraged contradiction without pushing buttons- a refreshing change for someone from the Sixties New Left. Later I heard that is typical for him.
Tue, 2008-02-19 09:02
#5
Should there be a link to an account of this conversation? I look forward to Castro's possible future role as a resource for helping peopole think further than the corporate media would let us.
Re the struggle asgainst sexism: I have been to Cuba and despite my limited Sanish had fascinating conversations with Cuban feminists. I was also impressed with the diversity and depth of the material from various LAC countries available in bookstores.