The longer these ideas sit with me, the more convinced I am that art’s purpose is to propose meanings and oppose meaninglessness, ever-present as nihilism. Humanistic art is one buttress against nihilism. But, as you explain, it has its weaknesses as something relatively internal and tempted (as we are) toward the sense that there is no sense or meaning to be found.
Yes, ever hope. Not knowing the background, I read the poem as a poignant elegy for Christianity’s decline and the inevitable tide of hopelessness that follows. First encounter with Hecht’s riposte - fabulous!
The longer these ideas sit with me, the more convinced I am that art’s purpose is to propose meanings and oppose meaninglessness, ever-present as nihilism. Humanistic art is one buttress against nihilism. But, as you explain, it has its weaknesses as something relatively internal and tempted (as we are) toward the sense that there is no sense or meaning to be found.
Yes. I want to emphasize that Arnold isn't being malicious in his misrepresentation of the truth; but what he says is still misleading
Yes, ever hope. Not knowing the background, I read the poem as a poignant elegy for Christianity’s decline and the inevitable tide of hopelessness that follows. First encounter with Hecht’s riposte - fabulous!