Posted by Ed Kiser on January 18, 2008 at 22:43:42 from 205.188.116.198 user Kisered.
In Reply to: FLASHMAN posted by dan Lind on January 17, 2008 at 01:03:40:
Once again, we have this evidence of two quite separate cultures kept apart by the Big Pond. What becomes significant and a fond memory of childhood on one side of that water is total "say wha?" on the other side. So is this concept of some sort of entity known as "Flashman."
Perhaps this example of the separation of two cultures also shows that separation exists between these two peoples with regards to a great appreciation of the works and talents of one Arthur Ransome. As meaningful as these stories are to the UK, here in the USA it is practically impossible to find anyone that has the faintest idea of who Ransome is, and just what are the "Swallows and Amazons" as these concepts seem to be totally alien to the USA mind and experience. Oh, there are those few, those precious few on this side of the Pond that know and love these works, but perhaps even these few find the roots of their comprehension of AR to be founded in some previous UK experience.
This somewhat practically total ignorance of our culture here of Ransome is a very frustrating situation. I have spoken to my Grandchildren's Teacher of READING, with the hope that somehow these books can get on their recommended listing of books to read, but am flatly turned down, even with my offer to purchase a few of these as they do not exist in the school's library - primarily because the teacher has no idea of what I am advocating. It is like climbing a smooth steep cliff to overcome this blatent ignorance. The books that are recommended are ALL items that I have never heard of before. Sad state of education when it comes down to reading drivel of no consequence that seem to be the recommended fare.
Sorry to vent so my frustration as to my total lack of ability to get ANYONE to read a Ransome book.
Humph...
Ed Kiser, Kentucky