Monthly Archives: June 2014

“Jane Austen”

“Jane Austen” The Oxford philosopher Gilbert Ryle was once asked whether he read novels. He is supposed to have answered, “Yes, all six of them.” How is it that Jane Austen, the author of those six and quintessential novelist-of-women, had … Continue reading

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“Victories”

“Victories” I won my first – and in many ways biggest – victory when I was six. My opponent was only five, which may subtract some from the glory, but he was a remarkably bad five-year-old. Jan was the younger … Continue reading

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“Forgiveness”

“Forgiveness” I suppose the opposite of forgiveness is holding a grudge – waiting and watching the person who wronged you till you can get your own back. If so, I must be a very forgiving type. Why don’t I cherish … Continue reading

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“Men!”

  “Men!” For some years I had a brilliant friend, male, with whom I used to talk far into the night about the most sublime and transcendent matters. We were sufficiently drawn to one another to be lovers, other colleagues … Continue reading

Posted in Academe, Art, Culture, Desire, Erotic Life, Femininity, Friendship, Gender Balance, Masculinity, relationships, Spirituality, The Problematic of Woman | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment