Chapter 45: Body & Soul

[Scott Badger]

Terrance:
> P seems to like Macrohistory or Universal theories of history, at least
> he likes to use them in his fictions. Adams or course, St. Augustine,
> Freud, Joachim de Fiore, Etc......that being said, I don't know of any
> hard evidence that he read Spengler.
>
> Spengler is a classic good read. I must say, however, this idea about
> the Classical mind is utter nonsense. Sorry, but these universal
> theories of the world and humanity are always full of lots of wonderful
> but silly things.  The example of Plato is almost too silly to comment
> on. There is no conscious evolution of doctrine in Plato's dialogues.
> Why not? And, each one takes up a different standpoint. Why? What is
> Plato up to?

I'm certainly no Plato scholar, and, as I mentioned, I've just started this
Spengler thing -- just calling 'em as I see 'em....Generally, I would agree
with your opinion of "universal theories" and, I must admit, I tossed out
that bit on Plato as a playful jibe at David. Re. Pynchon's own
interest/awareness (or lack thereof) in Spengler, I know better than to make
any claims...especially in these parts. Echoes seem to be there, though
whether tied directly to Spengler or not, I couldn't say.

Apologies to all for any irresponsible use of bandwidth...

Scott Badger