What Is Man


Whilst I am glad to make the switch from long-time 'lurker' to internet contributor, I must admit that it is a little daunting to put your own words out there. Therefore, I believe I am going to cop out somewhat by introducing someone else's words. And very beautiful words they are. Enjoy.

 

What Is Man?

What is he? 

-A man, of course. 

Yes, but what does he do? 

-He lives and is a man.

Oh quite! But he must work.  He must have a job of some sort 

-Why? 

Because obviously he’s not one of the leisured classes. 

-I don’t know.  He has lots of leisure.  And he makes quite beautiful chairs.

There you are then!  He’s a cabinet maker. 

-No, no 

Anyhow a carpenter and a joiner. 

-Not at all.

But you said so 

-What did I say? 

That he made chairs and was a joiner and carpenter 

-I said he made chairs, but I did not say he was a carpenter.

All right then he is just an amateur? 

-Perhaps! would you say a thrush was a professional flautist, or just an amateur?

I’d say it was just a bird 

-And I say he is just a man. 

 

Thrush woodcut by Indriani Widiastuti

Thrush woodcut by Indriani Widiastuti

DH Lawrence


P.S. My blogging virginity is well and truly lost forever.