J. Ruth Gendler discusses Notes On The Need For Beauty: An Intimate Look at an Essential Quality.
Gendler's first book in over ten years, "Notes" is a new vision of a well-traveled theme. Part psychology, part cultural comment, part philosophy, it challenges us to reconsider beauty, to refocus us on what really counts when we talk about and pursue beauty.
"Notes" is an artist's reflection on the complex nature of beauty and our unique relationship to it. In this lyrical and lively exploration of the soulful aspects of beauty, Gendler describes how beauty gives meaning and purpose to our lives. She makes a plea for our fast-paced, progress-driven society to slow down, to reflect and to engage the senses, so that we can begin to cultivate and nurture beauty around us. In so doing, she does for beauty what Richard Feynman did for physics - makes it meaningful, accessible, and elegant- Cody's Books
Bio
J. Ruth Gendler
J. Ruth Gendler is the author of The Book of Qualities and the editor of Changing Light: The Eternal Cycle of Night and Day. The Book of Qualities, now in its 30th printing, has been adapted as a two act theater piece and translated into German, Japanese, and Chinese, as well as being widely excerpted in literary, psychological and educational publications. In addition to personal essays and poems, Gendler writes about the arts, education, health, and books. Her art work has been exhibited nationally.
Gendler has taught writing and art in a variety of settings for twenty years. She has been an artist in residence with both California Poets in the Schools and Young Audiences of the Bay Area and leads writing and creativity workshops nationally.