Conversations with Tyler Cynthia L. Haven on René Girard, Czeslaw Milosz, and Joseph Brodsky
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Aug 24, 2022 Cynthia Haven, a Stanford visiting scholar and biographer of literary giants like René Girard, Czeslaw Milosz, and Joseph Brodsky, shares profound insights from her mentors. She discusses the significance of exile in shaping their works and the complexities of their identities. The conversation dives into Girard’s theories on mimesis, the relevance of Milosz in today's academic landscape, and Brodsky's views on cultural identity. Cynthia also reflects on her transition from reporting to philosophy, offering personal anecdotes amid critiques of social media and conformity.
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Exile's Allure
- Cynthia Haven's interest in Girard, Brodsky, and Milosz isn't solely due to their shared exile experience.
- Their individual thoughts and how they expressed them intrigued her.
Milosz on Berkeley
- Czesław Miłosz reacted to Berkeley protestors with a mix of amusement and disdain.
- He saw their complaints as stemming from privilege.
Girard's Outsider Status
- Cynthia Haven believes a biography of René Girard wasn't written by academics due to conformism.
- Girard was seen as an outsider, making it risky for academics to associate with him.
