Hello, World Wide Web. I'm Logan Dalton, and this is my new blog Classical Zeitgeist. First, some quick background. I'm a senior at Faith Christian School, who plays basketball and cross country. I also work in the visual ministry at my church and write articles for the teen section of the Roanoke Times.
But enough about me... Welcome to Classical Zeitgeist!
The purpose of this blog is to end "chronological" snobbery and show that classic texts can be relevant in 21st century literature, music, film, television, and video games. But what is the definition of classic?
Is it the oldies station on the FM dial of your car radio? Or that '68 Camaro you just shined up for the car show downtown? No, it is the books and ideas that have transcended the ages and explain the timeless ideals of truth, beauty, and goodness that held true from antiquity until the Enlightenment.
This blog will show books and ideas from the Old Testament to Rousseau (circa 2000 BC to 1778 AD) and compare them to books, songs, movies, TV shows, and even some video games of the 20th and 21st century. If anyone has any classic or modern work that they want me to do a critique on, I'll be happy to make a blog post of it.
The scope of this blog is universal. Any acclaimed work of literature, blockbuster or independent movie (that is not too distasteful) ;), TV show that has a deeper meaning (sorry Jersey Shore!), current popular hit or a compelling alternative song, or intriguing, interactive video game is fair game.
However, my worldview isn't universal. I'm a born again Christian who believes that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God (1 Timothy 3:16), and that there is a God who created us and has a personal relationship with Christians (Acts 17:28; John 3:16). I believe that God chose me to be saved (Ephesians 1:11), and that the good things that I have done are not enough to cover my sins (Isaiah 64:6;Romans 3:9-11). However, Jesus by dying on the cross (Romans 5:8) and resurrecting from the dead in three days (1 Corinthians 15:14) has atoned (paid the price for) for my sin and anyone who believes (Acts 16:31).
It would be my joy for everyone to see these great ancient and modern works of art through the eyes of Christ and run to Him. However, if you don't agree with me, I would love to hear what you believe and why you believe it.
I hope you enjoy this time traveling journey that spans history, literature, philosophy, and theology. I'm a huge NBA and college sports fan, so I might throw in a few posts about things. I'm also a poet, and any kind of short fiction or poetry is more than welcome.
"Ars longa, vita brevis"- Hippocrates (Greek doctor 460-370 BC)
"Art is long, life is short."
