MANY YEARS AGO I came upon this statement in an article by Iris Murdoch (pictured). She was discussing the novels of Jean Paul Sartre. Although she admired his work, something fundamental was lacking. In this phrase she stated exactly what it was. Have you heard of Iris Murdoch? Perhaps just the name, Iris, will stir your memory. Did you see a beautiful film, just a few years ago, which contrasted the early life of a brilliant young woman with the final stages of that life, her mind struggling with dementia? Continue reading The Absurd, Irreducible Uniqueness of People . . .
Tag Archives: Iris Murdoch
Do I know you?
Peter Batten’s thoughts turn to the possibilities of knowing others . . .
Recently I had an experience which I am sure all my readers will recognise. I was leaving a meeting when a lady, who was entering the room, gave me what seemed like a smile of recognition. Puzzled, I asked, “Do I know you?” The answer was, “No”. So why the smile? I blame a very English tendency to establish a friendly relationship with every one you meet. But there is a more interesting point. During your life, how many people do you know? How many people know you? Continue reading Do I know you?
The Whistler 