Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Film References
I found it odd that Keith A. Joseph, in his review of On the Hills of Black America, would compare the play to 1984 and A Clockwork Orange. Why not add Soylent Green or Planet of the Apes? Theodore Sturgeon was once called a less-than-perfect book reviewer because "he could never say an unkind word." While the play may indeed be painfully "surreal," is comparing the play to these other works the only way Joseph can say a bad word about it, or at least put forth another view? Or, funniest of all, perhaps it's mere coincidence that Joseph compares these plays, one about the other. Excuse me, I need to get back to Star Trek--they don't call it escapist fantasy for nothing.
Mike J. Wiles
Akron
Joseph replies: These works were referenced in their novel forms because the authors of both books created their own language, as was the case in Keith Josef Adkins's On the Hills of Black America.
A Lion's Share of Christian Support
I am writing in response to all these over-sensitive Christians out there who keep writing to criticize the "Jesus of the Week" feature. Lighten up, for Christ's sake. I consider myself a Christian, and I am not offended in the least. Besides, this is America, where we have freedom of the press and freedom of speech--perhaps these Christians aren't aware that we are living in a free country. Or perhaps their aim is to repress anything that doesn't conform to their narrow-minded beliefs. Either way, I think you should continue this feature and not buckle to the whinings of some self-appointed, self-righteous keepers of morality.
Damon Koch
Cleveland
A Jolly Good Take on Jesus
My purpose in writing to you was spurred by the letters you have received in response to your "Jesus of the Week" feature. Personally, I enjoy it and find it quite amusing. It pisses me off and breaks my heart to find out that there are people who are offended by something that showcases the creativity of a certain person who has attempted to find the humor and lighter side of something so serious as Christianity.
I know you are busy people, so I'm going to cut this short by saying that if someone is so offended by "Jesus of the Week," they can jolly well read some other publication, so they can complain about whatever they have to offer.
Matthew A. McDonald
Cleveland
Jesus Garners Another Vote
If Jesus came back and saw "Jesus of the Week," I think he would look at the various ways His alleged image is being used for subtle cultural brainwashing and marketing. Drop a note of thanks to Peter Gilstrap, and do unto some Christian artists as He did unto the money changers in the Temple. Keep on!
Jeffrey Quick
Cleveland
Famous Faces From Hicksville
I'm writing to support J.C. Salyers's letter ["Hicksville Responds," March 18] concerning Akron, Canton, and Massillon's contributions to Northeast Ohio. As a former resident of Akron, I'd like to point out that the Akron area is also the home of Chrissie Hynde, Jessie White (the Maytag Repairman), Gates McFadden (Dr. Crusher on Star Trek: The Next Generation), and Ray Wise (Laura Palmer's father on Twin Peaks). To those who wish to bicker about which town is the best in Northeast Ohio, take it from a former area resident now living in Missouri--I'd be happy to be back in any of them.
Steve Hammond
St. Louis, Missouri
