A great reminder of the importance of English and other studies of the creative and artistic process appeared this week over at Interdisciplinary World. Perhaps the most important quality that such endeavors provide, besides the opportunity to participate in the best that has been thought, written, and created (Arnold) and the ways we attempt to understand truth and beauty (Keats), is modeling.
Through literature or other works of art we are able to see different versions of the people we might like to be. What kinds of heroism should we pursue or villainy should we avoid? Whom should we admire? What does it take to be admirable? How have those people already presented themselves in my own life, and what might I do if I encounter them in the future? Very few fields offer such opportunities for self-analysis and preparation for life, so be thankful when you get a chance to read or view interesting works.
Through literature or other works of art we are able to see different versions of the people we might like to be. What kinds of heroism should we pursue or villainy should we avoid? Whom should we admire? What does it take to be admirable? How have those people already presented themselves in my own life, and what might I do if I encounter them in the future? Very few fields offer such opportunities for self-analysis and preparation for life, so be thankful when you get a chance to read or view interesting works.