17 Comments
User's avatar
JanetS's avatar

Very insightful. I've never seen the issues laid out like this. Send it to the mainstream press, to let them see themselves in the mirror of your words.

Tobias Gisle's avatar

Thank you. The reason it is on Substack at all is that it was rejected by a paper I have been writing for. A shame but good thet people get to read it.

Joy B's avatar

I have a friend who is being increasingly radicalised and passionate against Jews and Israel. She posts on Facebook. I'd like to send her your article, because you address and explain so well without being confontational

Tobias Gisle's avatar

Of course! This is kind of my mission in life. I have been deradicalised myself and would like to do the same for others.

Joy B's avatar

Ah, Yes, I've read your articles before. You have such a kind and gentle way of speaking truth. My husband is concerned about my substack subscriptions so I can't add another one at the moment. But I've shared this article to facebook

Matitya Loran's avatar

I agree with everything you said. That said, I can’t resist the urge to be pedantic about an extremely minor point. In Greek mythology, Poseidon’s affair with Medusa was entirely consensual. It being a rape was introduced to the story by the Romans much later.

Tobias Gisle's avatar

Changed it now. But it is less sharp and striking because of you. I had do that, dont want to come dragging the Romans into the story, its long enough already!

Matitya Loran's avatar

I understand that. Believe me, every piece of mine you’ve ever read was drastically longer in its earliest drafts.

Tobias Gisle's avatar

What a shame. I have to change it now.

MoreTemperate's avatar

Excellent piece. Thank you.

J Man's avatar

Terrific article. Intelligent and articulate.

Robert Labossiere's avatar

Could we see a credit for the artist of the first image please? Thanks.

Tobias Gisle's avatar

Sure. Changed it. Thanks for pointing that out.

Robert Labossiere's avatar

Wikipedia provides more info:

"Sorrowful old man" (F998, JH269) pencil, black lithographic crayon, wash, white opaque watercolour, on watercolour paper, 1882, Kröller-Müller Museum.

"Worn out" is actually a different drawing that became the painting "At Eternity's Gate." Here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/At_Eternity%27s_Gate

Tobias Gisle's avatar

Ok. Not an art guy. Not really the point of the piece. But I will change it.

Robert Labossiere's avatar

Seriously? Van Gogh? Would never have guessed. Thank you!