Issue Ninety-Six

1. Loved Michael Haskins’ “The Philosopher.” Haunting and beautiful language: “the people of the desert knew the sad inaccuracy of these tales, for they had bathed in those waters for thousands of years and still they watched their loved ones die from the failings of the body. Nevertheless, all the credible sources to the philosopher’s ear extolled their healing powers–or perhaps the philosopher merely assigned his faith where he wanted…”

2. I loved Barb Natividad’s “Slice of Pie” though it did make my stomach churn. I guess there really isn’t anything more American than apple pie.

3. Loved “The Philosopher” by Michael Haskins. His writing draws you in and brings the imagery to life. The story stays with you, making you do some soul-searching – what is it that we continue to look for even when all the signs are there telling us to turn back.

4. Enjoyed Michael Haskins’ “The Philosopher.” There is a Kafka-like tone to it – the sense of separation, anxiety, trying to know or have something you think the “other” knows or has, being lost and subject to powers beyond your control. Is it mere pride that dooms the Philosopher? He doesn’t fear death, but feels he has more to do, and he is too arrogant to follow the coastal path. But there’s more to it – he’s allowed his great, systematic mind to be tainted by “merely assign(ing) his faith where he wanted.” With this attempted reconciliation of mind (reason?) and faith, the Philosopher neither lives nor dies, but remains a living stone in a no-man’s land, never to be rescued. Well done, Mr. Haskins.

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