Comments on: A Republic Made of Words

By: Glenn W. Smith

Glenn W. Smith — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:47:08 +0000

“Oliver Wiswell” is a great example, and an example of how powerful narrative is. If someone had just said to you, “There was a loyalist named Oliver Wiswell who was honest and courageous,” you probably wouldn’t have examined your earlier assumptions. Thanks for this.

By: Patty Horridge

Patty Horridge — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:29:25 +0000

Great images and food for thought in this piece. Yes, that tension between myth and reality is where we grow. As you so eloquently state, most often the vehicle for that growth is through words. As a student of American History, I was taught to idolize our Founding Fathers and the ideals of the American Revolution. Then, in my 30s, I was introduced to Kenneth Roberts’ novel, “Oliver Wiswell”. The title character was an honest man of courage and integrity, but he was a Loyalist, of all things! I realized that, given my peacemaker nature, I might very well have been in his camp. I didn’t move back to England; but I did realize that one’s perspective can be challenged, and that seeking the truth is a lofty goal. Thanks for always keeping us challenged with your truth-seeking.

By: Carmen Hill

Carmen Hill — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:48:33 +0000

Glenn, really enjoyed this. Kudos to you for finding wisdom and meaning in an environment that must feel a lot like “Quemado” a lot of the time.