For Writers and Readers

less IS more
from Ken Kuhlken, author of:

Will Beauty Save the World?

A friend suggested a book, Beauty Will Save the World, by Brian Zhand. Ever since reading it, I encounter more and more references to the idea that title expresses. Meantime, I see more and more reasons to believe something had better save the world, because we and it are in big trouble and if something needs to come along to save us, I vote for beauty.

The world I see keeps getting uglier. I could burn a lot of energy describing what I mean by ugly. But for now, I'm thinking about beauty.

Fyodor Dostoyevski is my all-time favorite novelist. Still (shame on me) I read Brian Zhand's book without noting that the title came from Dostoyevski's The Idiot in which Prince Myshkin makes that claim.

Although the claim may appear awfully far-fetched, I'm so convinced it's not, I intend to devote myself to the topic for the next hundred years, at least. I would be delighted if others decide to join me.

For those who might consider doing so, I'll suggest a fine place from which to launch the expedition: with The Brother's Karamazov, in which Father Zossima explains and demonstrates how the world's salvation might proceed.

Besides, it's the best novel ever, even better than mine.

A Test the Will Predict Your Destiny

Anyone who strives to write valuable stuff had better go on their phone or computer or tablet to the Writing and the Spirit podcast. Those who do this can reasonably hope to become successful writers. Those who don't haven't much of a chance.

If you think I'm simply boasting, listen to this week's podcast, during which I explain why it's the truth.

And then PLEASE subscribe. It won't cost you a dime, and it might make all the difference.

Resurrect the Writers' Conference in Heaven

I won't repeat again my plea for help with reviving the Mt. Hermon Writers' Conference. If you missed my heartfelt plea, it's waiting for you in each of the last two issues at the less IS more archive.

All I will suggest here is, read about the proposed conference and the rewards for helping out. If it didn't require selling my house, I would finance the whole thing. Or maybe I will do just that so we can stroll the redwood trails, talk to good smart people, sing hymns, and attend sessions we all can learn from.

MeanwhiIe, I will dream seeing you there next spring.