the littlest mason

[RICHARD ROMEO]

good post J.  . What difference does the coefficient make if the mercy 
approaches zero? Get rid
of the u altogether."
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not exactly sure of what it is you are saying but within humanity as a 
whole, mercy approaches zero but will never reach zero.  Individuals are 
a different story--suicides, madmen, take your pick from history's 
gallery.  therefore that coefficient, though static, still is valuable.  
Surely, we don't see any aspect of "cheap nihilism" (mercy at zero, self 
and otherwise) in Mason's gaze at the looking glass?  that's what makes 
him a figure for compassion
also, what a wonderful phrase--"Strange Engines"--reflects the 
physicality of Mason's earhly work but also the crazy supernatural 
currents underlying his sad visage--something others will pick up, hardly 
ever the bearer...

we should also discuss why the Vrooms pick Mason and not Dixon for their 
baby trade--do they see something in Dixon's eye that they don't see in 
Mason's (and what is it?)--Charlie being preoccupied with other worlds 
and hence easier to persuade?

your fellow sister,

Richard Romeo
Coordinator of Cooperating Collections
The Foundation Center-NYC
212-807-2417
rromeo at fdncenter.org