MDDM Ben Franklin

[jbor]

I'd actually like to see if and how the hypotheses of Heisenberg,
Schrödinger et. al. are brought to bear at a structural level of the text.
I've always been persuaded that they are an influence at the *thematic*
level, in terms of indeterminacies, discontinuities, trawling those space/s
between empiricism and logic, and so forth.

While I'm more tempted to compare Gershom's situation with Austra's and,
indeed, with Wicks's .... I think that I concur with John that the
particular relationship between George and Gershom is somewhat atypical
w/r/t the traditional master-slave nexus in colonial America.

The symmetry which struck me in the current scene was between George and
Chas and their respective "seconds", Gershom and Jeremiah. Neither of the
putative superiors is able to keep their inferior's tongue in check, though
both try to. (279.35, 285.30) I detect a healthy disregard for the
formalities of precedence in George's relationship with Gershom, and the
same sort of easy confraternity is beginning to seep into the partnership
between Cha. and Jere. also.

Gershom has "re-tailor'd" his "Slave-and-Master Joaks" for the current
audience, Cha. and Jere. *He*, the slave, is thus making the comparison
between a King and his subjects, and a Master and his slaves, which is an
interesting insight.

I think that, in these immediate interviews or interrogations with Franklin
and Washington, Cha. and Jere. have been given a sort of test, or series
thereof, and that they have passed these to the satisfaction of their hosts,
which explains why Ben is more forthcoming at the subsequent meeting in
Philadelphia. Thus they have been permitted to continue with the commission
unhindered, and will be given every possible support, as well as receiving
sound advice about some of the hazards in store.

best

 

on 19/1/02 12:33 AM, Bandwraith at aol.com at Bandwraith at aol.com wrote:

> 
> In a message dated 1/17/02 7:36:06 PM, jbor at bigpond.com writes:
> 
> << These are Franklin's words, "back in Philadelphia". (287.21)
>>> 
> 
> "Phlogiston and Electrical Fir-r-re" you are correct, sir! But, but , but...
> But I have no time defend myself against these difficult charges, until
> this evening. In the meantime, I shall make like Franklin when
> confronted by Wedderburn and maintain silence.
> 
> Except to wonder aloud about the peculiar asymmetry between King
> and Fool, and,  Master and Slave.
> 
> Which reminds me: Why is the King like a near-sighted Gunner?
> Must be that both need to get close in order to make their mark.
> What thinkest thou?
> 
> Sigue 
>