14
"Yes, and 'why' is the first question of philosophy, is it not?" asked Director. "Maybe that's what this is really all about, friend. Maybe we are not trying to convey truth as much as we are trying to help keep philosophy alive."
Youth smiled broadly. "Yes, why would we want to convey the truth about how graceful or intelligent someone is? There's really no point in that, is there?" Then he grew serious. "But maybe, Director, we convey the truth about what the situation is concerning philosophy. That's of value, isn't it?"
"I believe it is, Youth. But you know, my friend, I don't understand what you think philosophy is that we should be so concerned with it."
Youth flushed, but gathered up his pluck and said: "I don't know exactly what it is. But I do know that it is good. I feel that it is good. Beyond that I only know that it is what you do. And that is one of the reasons I want you to write. I want to try to understand philosophy - on my own."
"On your own? But why not ask me about it so we can talk it through?"
Youth wrung his hands. "I don't think I'd be able to follow. I'd have to ask lots and lots of questions."
"What's wrong with that?"
"Most people don't like lots of questions. They get impatient with me and I feel awful."
"Do you think I will get impatient with you?"
"I'm afraid you will. I'm a slow learner."
Director looked at Youth for a moment. "You said your understanding philosophy is one of the reasons you want me to write. What's another?"
Youth blushed. "I want to have something to remember you by when you're gone."
"Dead and gone? Am I really that old already?"
Youth shrugged. "I was afraid you'd procrastinate."
Director laughed, then said: "Won't you have your memories of our conversations?"
"It's not the same. Memories fade. I want something I can keep, something I can go back to and learn from again and again."
"Then I will write you something. And I will not make it a puzzle. To the extent that philosophy is complex - or rather, to the extent that the situation of philosophy is complex - I will write accordingly. But you have my word that I will add nothing more to complicate the matter beyond what is its due. But you must promise me something."
"Anything!"
"You will only share this document with people with whom you think I would converse freely."
"I promise! Thank you, Director. Thank you very much!"
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Nick Pappas, pappasnick.typepad.com
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