Comments on: Bangs and Whimpers http://newrambler.net/ramblings/back/108 a blog by Laura Crossett Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:56:39 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 By: aerin http://newrambler.net/ramblings/back/108/comment-page-1#comment-34193 aerin Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:29:08 +0000 http://newrambler.net/ramblings/?p=108#comment-34193 I finished <i>Infinite Jest</i>. I liked it. There were some sideplots (the Canadian separtists group) that were difficult to follow, but for the most part, I thought the characters (and concepts about human nature and groups) were fascinating. I really enjoyed <i>Consider the Lobster</i>. I think that his essay about McCain's presidential run in 2000 (DFW was a reporter for Rolling Stone) was a unique perspective on presidential politics (and the character of anyone who chooses to put themselves through the process). I think that the pilgrimage to Bloomington Normal (that never materialized) is a perfect subtext for his work - the tension of action and inaction. It is hard to know what someone was thinking. I do have compassion for DFW and for others suffering from depression. Not that depression is easy for anyone, but I believe that it's even more difficult for those who are intelligent and aware. It's easy to reason yourself out of various treatment options. And for those who are aware, it's all to simple to focus on human nature and the state of the world. And I agree with you about taking notice. I finished Infinite Jest. I liked it. There were some sideplots (the Canadian separtists group) that were difficult to follow, but for the most part, I thought the characters (and concepts about human nature and groups) were fascinating. I really enjoyed Consider the Lobster. I think that his essay about McCain’s presidential run in 2000 (DFW was a reporter for Rolling Stone) was a unique perspective on presidential politics (and the character of anyone who chooses to put themselves through the process). I think that the pilgrimage to Bloomington Normal (that never materialized) is a perfect subtext for his work – the tension of action and inaction.

It is hard to know what someone was thinking. I do have compassion for DFW and for others suffering from depression. Not that depression is easy for anyone, but I believe that it’s even more difficult for those who are intelligent and aware. It’s easy to reason yourself out of various treatment options. And for those who are aware, it’s all to simple to focus on human nature and the state of the world. And I agree with you about taking notice.

]]>