12-31-2011, 02:12 AM
I cannot see any reason why there would be a firm relationship between the time and effort taken to write a poem, and the quality of the result. Certainly, something carelessly scribbled off is unlikely to appeal; but so is some belaboured effort of months. Surely so much depends on knowledge and skill acquired over time?
The analogy with other crafts, such as cabinet-making or joinery, is a good one. Yet-- how many times have I looked at jewellery, or furniture, only to be left regretful that the craftsman had amazing skill, and technique, and no flair, imagination or taste. It is as if Morgan, makers of highly sought-after cars, decided that it would be just the thing, were they to paint Mickey on the side, or the stupid Olympic 2012 logo (chosen by God knows who, in a country which makes money from its design skills).
Where would the Japanese National Living Treasure be? He meditates, for weeks, then chooses the tree to be cut to fuel the kiln for the pot he is to make; the same with clay to be dug; finally, in seconds, he throws the pot. But I have seen such a pot, and can testify that whether any of that was necessary, he certainly made a breathtakingly fine pot, quite plain.
The analogy with other crafts, such as cabinet-making or joinery, is a good one. Yet-- how many times have I looked at jewellery, or furniture, only to be left regretful that the craftsman had amazing skill, and technique, and no flair, imagination or taste. It is as if Morgan, makers of highly sought-after cars, decided that it would be just the thing, were they to paint Mickey on the side, or the stupid Olympic 2012 logo (chosen by God knows who, in a country which makes money from its design skills).
Where would the Japanese National Living Treasure be? He meditates, for weeks, then chooses the tree to be cut to fuel the kiln for the pot he is to make; the same with clay to be dug; finally, in seconds, he throws the pot. But I have seen such a pot, and can testify that whether any of that was necessary, he certainly made a breathtakingly fine pot, quite plain.