Thomas F. Staley, director of the Harry Ransom Center, reflects on the ways literature, art and the humanities are vital to teaching us how to be intellectually alive.
Staley is also professor of English and holds The Harry Huntt Ransom Chair in Liberal Arts.
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Dr. Staley, Thanks for your wonderful insight into the exploration of literature. Too often my generation fails to take the time to reflect in the wonders of the words that authors dedicated their time to transcript in the past. A place that continues to shead light onto today. Truly learning is a life labor. All the Best, Chris
Dr. Staley, This was a superb reminder of the importance of the arts and humanities in daily life. As a Humanities major myself, I am often asked of the relevance and, for that matter, significance of my degree. I often reply that the arts and humanities remind us that learning is not just about seeking a career, and literature and art especially broadens the scope with which we view the world. This was a wonderful segment, and one that more people should watch and reflect on!
Dear Tom: What a great vocal statement you have made! It parallels science also in that not only through poets but also through careful observation of Nature, you can be taught to see the world! Congratulations and keep up your wonderful work. Here's to James J! Malcolm
Thank you Dr. Staley and the Ransom Center for your wonderful, ongoing support of the humanities. The humanities have always been one of the greatest gifts people impart from generation to generation. When we cut funding to libraries and art programs across our country, we are diminishing our culture. We are poorer in spirit and our understanding and tolerance of other people is damaged.
Dear Tom, Now, more than ever, it seems we need your articulate enthusiasm for the joys of living. Your example of the drawing power for all ages of noon poetry readings is exactly what is necessary, and has always been necessary, to express the eternal relevance of art and literature. Thank you. Mary Sherwood