That was gorgeous, Solon. I'm so glad you responded.
I've spent more time in Europe than many Americans, and though (as you know) I'm a Christian, I was amazed to see that the overwhelming majority of art in Italy and France was "sponsored" by the Catholic Church, and hence reflected religious themes. I couldn't help but think will in the Uffizi in Florence,in the city of Avignon, and in tiny villages all over both countries, how much human power was directed toward the design and building of shrines to Christ and Mary. Would would these towns look like if artists could find another source of funding in order to make a living and feed their families? Surely there would be magnificent churches, frescoes and tile work, and there would have been so much more.
Your point about the "softness" (my word) that settles in on people in a democratic society is well-taken. A democracy looks to be representative of citizenry, it does not look to, nor can it, please everyone all the time.
And you're right about American beer....except for Samuel Adams out of Boston. Ever tried it? |
