It is acknowledged by many that the year 1887 was the high point of Paul Verlaine's suffering. It served as a turning point, symbolising the lowest of lows; the remaining years of his life were undoubtedly marked by crises, alcoholism, hospitalisation and financial difficulties. Nevertheless, the competing attentions of his two closest confidants, Eugènie Krantz and Philomène Boudin, the occasional help of last-resort sponsors, and his belated recognition as a ‘the prince of poets' by the young bohemian community ensured that he would not sink into the same depths of poverty and hopelessness that he had experienced during that tumultuous year.
The Jewish community also have their madmen. In the early hours of 15 August, approximately fifty Israeli settlers entered the Palestinian village of Jit in the West Bank to commit a massacre on its inhabitants. It is impossible to ignore the atrocities committed by Hamas and look lightly upon such horrors. One cannot be outraged that some refuse to label as "terrorism" the horrors of October 7, and not label as "terrorism" the attacks of August 15, under penalty of being part of the problem. Lastly, one cannot denounce the influence of anti-Semitic speeches on weak-minded individuals who act without denouncing with the same force the influence of extremist speeches on fanatics who, to relax, go break Arabs in a neighbouring village. It must be said: the 23-year-old Palestinian who was shot dead on the night of August 15 is a victim of Jewish terrorism. And whether you are Jewish or Arab, left-wing or right-wing, whether you say "West Bank" or "Judea-Samaria", whether you live in Jerusalem, Paris, London, New York or Ramallah, all consciences and primarily in Israel, must rise up against such a crime.
Philosophy and poetry share a unique relationship, as they both aim to understand the essence of reality, human experience, and existence. Philosophy is dedicated to rigorous reasoning and discerning examination, while poetry uses language to express emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Both disciplines aim to shed light on the complexities of human existence through their shared focus on thought as an invaluable tool for exploration and enlightenment. Poetry uses metaphors, similes, and vivid imagery to convey abstract ideas, captivating the senses and evoking intricate emotional and intellectual responses. Philosophers, on the other hand, meticulously construct coherent arguments that elucidate the fundamental nature of reality and the human condition. The profound relationship between philosophy and poetry is deeply rooted in their shared emphasis on thought as an invaluable tool for exploration and enlightenment.
Novalis, whose real name was Friedrich von Hardenberg, lived during the period of the Enlightenment, approximately 30 years after its commencement. He was born on May 2, 1772, in Oberwiederstedt, a town located in central Germany. Coming from a long-established aristocratic family, the Hardenberg's, his father held the position of estate manager, responsible for overseeing various family properties in the area. Unfortunately, Novalis lost his mother at a young age, just a year after his birth in 1772. His father went on to remarry in 1775, resulting in the birth of several half-siblings for Novalis. Despite this loss, Novalis's childhood was marked by happiness. Growing up surrounded by a large extended family consisting of aunts, uncles, and cousins, residing in different magnificent houses and estates across the rural German countryside, he enjoyed countless hours of play and adventure in the woods and fields. In addition to his joyful experiences, Novalis was raised in an environment rich in religion and pietism.
Altruism, the philosophical concept of selfless concern and action for the well-being of others, has long captivated the minds of philosophers throughout history. This essay delves into the intricate nature of altruism and its philosophical implications at the doctoral level. Drawing from various philosophical perspectives, this exploration will shed light on the motivations, limitations, and implications of altruistic behaviour. By examining different philosophical frameworks, we can unravel the complexities of altruism and develop a deeper understanding of its significance in our lives and society.
Fighting against Islamism presents a daunting challenge, not only due to the inherent danger involved. The most difficult aspect lies in maintaining composure in the face of those who align themselves with this physical and totalitarian threat, capable of anything – even resorting to deceit in order to portray themselves as victims while jeopardising your safety. A prime example of this is when they label you as "Islamophobic".
Supporting the Palestinian cause, pointing out the innocent victims of Israeli bombardments, and using their arguments are all valid actions. Quite another is to remove the images of children held hostage, and who have been separated from their parents (if they are still alive). Unfortunately, this unheard-of spectacle is happening in our democracies, where ordinary and decent individuals, similar to you and me, are quietly removing photos of Israeli child hostages from public displays. It is baffling to understand what goes on in their minds and why they believe they are doing the right thing by deliberately removing posters of infants captured by Hamas.
The relationship between philosophy and poetry has been a subject of ongoing contemplation throughout human history. In examining the influence of Baruch Spinoza on poets, particularly in the 19th century, we are presented with a dialectic exploration of the convergence of rational thought and artistic expression. This article aims to elucidate Spinoza's ideas and their impact on poets, addressing their fascination with his philosophy and how it shaped their literary works. By delving into this relationship, we can uncover the profound influence that Spinoza had on the poetic landscape of the 19th century.