Classics and the Western Canon discussion

Thanks Theresa. These are lovely. I think that would call the method embroidery which produces a tapestry

Thanks again, Theresa. No these are good. I can see how intricate the work is!

Hilary wrote: "Thanks Theresa. These are lovely. I think that would call the method embroidery which produces a tapestry"

At least in the U.S., needlepoint is usually done on an open weave canvas or net, rather than closer weave cloth as embroidery usually is. Bargello often uses a similar base. Counted cross stitch is one of the many embroidery stitches often used on samplers. Needlework would apply to both needlepoint and embroidery. (I haven't looked at Theresa's examples yet.)

Needlework is the right word. Anyway, Kathy's metaphor had more to do with the sampler idea.

Theresa wrote: "Needlework is the right word. Anyway, Kathy's metaphor had more to do with the sampler idea."

You make me want to pick up one of those unfinished pieces of needlepoint around here. Not sure my eyes will let me do it any more. Unlike books, which I have no qualms dropping if no longer seeming worth more investment, started needlework pieces really should be finished!

And we do hang on to those unfinished needlework projects don't we? I know I have a few.

Thanks Patrice. I've actually just finished Ithaca and you're right. Some of the writing is stunning! So glad I've persevered. Thanks for everyone's encouragement. :-)

Theresa wrote: "Needlework is the right word. Anyway, Kathy's metaphor had more to do with the sampler idea."

Exactly. When young girls were learning needlework they would do a sampler that required several different types of stitches in order to practice and demonstrate their skills. The samplers aren't usually pictures or elaborate designs. They're often repeated rows of writing, such as family names, and simple designs. I was imagining Joyce doing the same thing: showing us all the different ways in which one can use language to tell a story.

Kyle wrote: "Patrice wrote: "Just so I understand what you're saying...



l. From the time Bloom decides to visit Mina Purefoy when she was in labor I thought it was a bizarre scene. Drunken young men and Bloo..."
I apologize for interrupting, especially for something that is a year and a half old, but my life revolves around Ulysses and I just can't help myself. Anyway, if I might suggest, I think the primary factor controlling all the drinking that does or does not go on in the book is not necessarily social norms, but rather simply financial considerations: if there was more money around there would be more drinking too. As far as Bloom and Stephen and the Cabman's shelter, I think Bloom completely, naively misunderstands Stephen when after Bloom helps him up he asks for something to drink: Stephen wants more alcohol and Bloom thinks he wants something to refresh himself. Again, sorry for butting in, i'm just disappointed I wasn't around last year.

May I ask how you came to be passionate about Ulysses. It's just that I found it all terribly confusing. Then, as if by magic, passages of beauty would burst through the cryptic writing. I'm still unsure what to make of it ...

Hilary wrote: "May I ask how you came to be passionate about Ulysses. It's just that I found it all terribly confusing. Then, as if by magic, passages of beauty would burst through the cryptic writing. I'm still ..."
I read Ulysses for the first time when I was 37, and knew next to nothing about the author or the book. I like the way Joyce writes.
I like the vividness and the intimacy. Ulysses is the most re-readable book I've ever encountered, and it's also the most fun!
(If there are any examples - either specific or general - of confusions that you would like to relate, I would love to continue the conversation.)

Thanks Mark. I'm afraid I can't think of anything specific. You are the first person I know to have expressed your unadulterated love of Joyce with a particular eye to rereading. That is fascinating!

Sorry I missed this 3 months ago, Mark. I don't regularly get notifications.