Monday, November 25, 2013

Overheard on. . . NPR


“Four score and seven years ago…”
November 19th marks the 150th year anniversary of Lincoln’s address at Gettysburg. America was, at that point, at about the midpoint of the war, which was waged from April 1861 to April 1865. This destructive war, which claimed an estimated 750,000 deaths, also solidified our country’s principles of freedom and equality for all.

Lincoln’s Eulogy at Gettysburg was intended to frame the horrible deaths being suffered, not just at Gettysburg, but across all of the battlefields, in terms of the cause the soldiers were dying for. But no matter how much Lincoln or anyone might wish it different, revolution is messy. And, even when a war has been ‘won’, people do not somehow magically agree with the other side’s views. In fact, at Gettysburg itself, only a few years after the war, a distinct cemetery was created for black Civil War veterans because of segregation policies still in effect (more on Gettysburg here).
As we look toward December the Genre-istas will be spotlighting some amazing guests who will discuss the changes occurring within the publishing arena. And, while not nearly as weighty as the Civil War, these changes do form a messy revolution. Do not expect clean lines and simple solutions. Do not look for clear winners and losers. Do not hope to avoid casualties. These are all a part of the experience of great change.

If you look to the right of this blog post you will see the guests who will help us understand this revolution. And while I am looking forward to hearing their perspectives, as we recognize that the best fictional characters have great depth, with that comes complexity and disagreement. The methods for waging this revolution, the players involved, the sacrifices being made: all of these can be debated and discussed.
So come back in December and add your two cents. A war of words, whereby we civilly discuss the problems and reach agreement, has far few casualties than a physical revolution.

Cheers,
Deanne
www.deannewilsted.com
Journeys Inspired by Love

5 comments:

Judith Ashley said...

I totally agree that a war of words has far fewer casualties than a physical revolution. I also lean toward the "If you think it needs to be physical then You, personally, need to be on the front lines. There was a time when physical wars were fought by the leaders and armies were not involved.

Thoughtful post Deanne - did you memorize The Gettysburg Address when you were in school?

Unknown said...

I respectfully disagree about war of words having less casualties. If we look back in history, whether evaluating President Lincoln's time or before/after, we find revolutions/wars are sparked because of words...

There's a reason the pen is mightier than the sword. It can be utilized for good or evil.

Let's not forget what started the atrocities of WWII, propaganda.

I close with a Proverb...

When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

A very thought provoking post.

Sarah Raplee said...

Perhaps wars of words have less obvious casualties, which might make them even more dangerous?

I agree that the upheaval occurring now in the publishing world is effecting huge changes and no one can predict the outcomes, but a civil dialogue amongst those involved is a positive thing.

What an exciting time to be a writer!

Margaret Tanner said...

Hi interesting blog. With a civil war I don't think there are any real winners, because the bitterness and division can last for years.
The next few years will be very interesting for us writers.

Regards

Margaret

Susan B James said...

Love your references. The words and the stories will be the survivors, no matter what the form.
Thanks for the post.