Another reason Hawthorne set his story in the past {in lies} was 'cause he couldn't say directly all the wild things he wanted to say. He was living in a society to which ideas and writing still mattered. In 'The Custom House', the introduction to The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne makes sure he tells us the story of The Scarlet Letter occurred long ago and has nothing to do with anyone who's now living. After all, Hawthorne had to protect himself so he could keep writing. Right now I can speak as directly as I want 'cause no one gives a shit about writing and ideas, all anyone cares about is money. Even if one person in Boise, Idaho, gave half-a-shit, the only book Mr Idaho can get his hands on is a book the publishers, or rather the advertisers {'cause all businessmen are now advertisers} have decided will net half-a-million in movie and/or TV rights. A book that can be advertised. Define culture that way.
( Kathy Acker )
[ Blood and Guts in High School ]
www.QuoteSweet.com