This blog is about examining the ideas, philosophies, and possible effects of different works of literature, both in the past and present, in a constructive, truth-seeking, yet casual way. Ideas and their effects are the implicit focus of this blog.
As for why I presume to speak on the subject, I have a M.A. in English Lit, and as part of my undergrad work I studied in Oxford (focusing almost exclusively on Shakespeare’s work). I have taught and tutored in English and ESL for years, and I currently teach writing at the university level.
However, I acquired most of my fundamental convictions outside (and often in spite) of my formal education.
That being said, this blog’s original intent was to be a Shakespeare study blog, and many of my early posts provided the origins of my current writing. Because I am an English tutor/teacher, much of the content will be geared toward providing informal yet thought-provoking and (hopefully) entertaining study tools.
This blog is not meant to be taken as peer-reviewed academic criticism, though I can offer some critical recommendations on certain works. I’ll offer the thoughts, tools, and perspectives that I found useful in my own education, as well as those I’ve used in my classroom. I have not had formal academic study in philosophy (other than my own reading), and I do not pretend to be an expert on all the topics I mention.
I will most likely incorporate many books I’ve read and arguments from the essays I have written. It is your responsibility to correctly cite me if my ideas affect your essays, and only then after prior permission and with full knowledge that I am not a professional critic on the subject. Do not plagiarize me or anyone I cite–if I mention someone, please do your due diligence and read the source, itself. However, if you want to gain some perspective on literary topics, I’d love for my posts to help.
Dustin L Lovell 