The Best Thing I Read Today

“It is possible at last for Masa and me to imagine a little of what the ancient – archaic — mind and life of Japan were. And to see what could be restored to the life today. A lot of it is simply in being aware of clouds and wind.”

– Gary Snyder, final lines of Earth House Hold

2 thoughts on “The Best Thing I Read Today

  1. Steve Gilzow

    Those of us in Ann Arbor had the profound pleasure of hearing Gary Snyder read a few days ago — Keith had the double pleasure and privilege of introducing him to the audience. I did a small sketch of Gary in my journal as he read, and wrote down on the same page these sentences from his talk:

    “We are all apprenticed to the same teacher — reality.”

    “I’ve kept up this exercise of deep unlearning.”

    “There is no substitute for presence.”

    “Wild refers to an intrinsic order, not craziness.”

    “Doing something well — especially in the arts — is its own reward.”

    After the reading there was a reception. I had the great good fortune to have a few minutes — basically alone, as others hit the food and drink — to speak with Gary. He signed and dated my journal page! An instant treasure. He had a remarkably approachable, kind presence.

    Reply
    1. Jerry Dennis Post author

      Steve — Lucky you! That’s a memory — and a journal page — you can carry with you always.

      Reply



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