Arion: A Journal of Humanities and the Classics is a favorite journal that, when I have opportunity, savor more than just read. It fills the lacuna of my formal cultural education.
The on-line version of Arion journal for Spring/Summer 2007 has an article by Camille Paglia, whom I always enjoy reading. While I do not always agree with her opinions, she is always thoughtful and intelligent, and rises above the din of contemporary critics and commentators.
Paglia’s article, “Religion and the Arts in America†contains the astounding statement:
“I would argue that the route to a renaissance of the American fine arts lies through religion.â€
That’s quite a contrasting statement to Hitchens’, and others’, current statements to the effect that everything about religion is ‘bad’. The article is well worth reading, and if you’re not familiar with the Arion journal, it’s well worth getting to know.
Arion is new to me, and I appreciate knowing about it. Their board is quite a mix. Camille Paglia is always provocative and does not hesitate to challenge the party line, whatever it happens to be.
Thanks for posting the article. I am persuaded of the importance of religion and the arts. If my
local church is any indication of paucity in the arts, the lack of knowledge and interest in hymnody and the few
people and young people who play instruments or have any interest in singing is staggering.