Saturday, May 14, 2016

Aesthetic Realism Lectures by Eli Siegel

I had the inestimable privilege of studying in Aesthetic Realism classes with Eli Siegel in the 1970's.  His scholarship was vast, as was his kindness.  He lectured on poetry, economics, art, history, education, literature, the lives of famous persons and those largely unknown, yet whose lives he saw as a means of knowing the world and oneself!   And there was much more. Every lecture was a thrilling explanation of and justice to the human mind and self of every person.  I am pleased to provide a link to some of the great lectures by Mr. Siegel, especially pointing to three about education.  They are: "Aesthetic Realism and Learning," "Mind and Schools," and "Educational Method is Poetic."  In them, you will find the erudition and charm had by Mr. Siegel in understanding the hopes of every student and teacher.    http://www.elisiegelcollection.net/Eli_Siegel_Lectures.htm
 

Gwe, Young Man of New Guinea, a Novel Against Racism by Dr. Arnold Perey

This important novel is a must read by anthropologists, but every educator will find within its pages an understanding of the way of seeing, based on respect for difference, that can end racism.   Dr. Arnold Perey is a consultant on the faculty of the not-for-profit Aesthetic Realism Foundation in New York City.  He uses the knowledge of Aesthetic Realism, which was founded by the great American poet and educator, Eli Siegel, as the basis of his seeing of Gwe, a young man of New Guinea, with great respect.  From this, a deep friendship and a vivid sense of relation comes to be between them.  It is very moving, and I am proud to provide a link to learn more about this novel.  http://www.perey-anthropology.net/GWE_Harlem_Book_Fair-chapter-1.htm