Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Meandering . . .

Today is the birthday of Irwin Allen Ginsberg ( June 3, 1926 – April 5, 1997), poet, photographer and social activist.

Allen Ginsberg is best known for his poem Howl. The poem celebrates the Beat Generation and speaks of the destructive forces of materialism and conformity in the United States. Soon after its 1956 publication it was banned for obscenity. The ban became a cause célèbre among First Amendment defenders, and was lifted when the judge declared Howl possessed redeeming social importance.

“The only thing that can save the world is the reclaiming of the awareness of the world. That's what poetry does.” - Allen Ginsberg

“Poetry is the one place where people can speak their original human mind. It is the outlet for people to say in public what is known in private.” - Allen Ginsberg

“Follow your inner moonlight; don't hide the madness.” - Allen Ginsberg

“Whoever controls the media, the images, controls the culture.” - Allen Ginsberg

Ginsberg image source (1)

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