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Post by NonStop on Aug 14, 2007 3:36:11 GMT -5
Its a shame that there isn't a biography for all the questions I keep asking. Anyways, is he religious? I've been reading is blog, and he likes going to faith-based places, and theres a picture of him wiht a cardboard cut-out of the pope. Anyone know?
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aric
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Post by aric on Aug 14, 2007 9:12:12 GMT -5
Its a shame that there isn't a biography for all the questions I keep asking. Anyways, is he religious? I've been reading is blog, and he likes going to faith-based places, and theres a picture of him wiht a cardboard cut-out of the pope. Anyone know? I don't know what Gurney's specific preference is (and he probably meant to do that on purpose), but what he demonstrates in the two illustrated books is what appears to be some sort of New Age spiritualism. There's the very strong nature-oriented philosophy all over the books. There's also the presence of crystals (sunstones), which are a New Age fetish. And he does seem to be going along with the vague New Age idea that one should turn away from the masculine principles of aggression and violence and towards more feminine principles. Partly this is shown by the rather peaceful social philosophy, but also by the matrilineal system that Dinotopians seem to use (five mothers Irish, etc.). Also, there's some of the reconstructed pagan symbols like the Green Man, which are definitely New Age. Not to mention the concept of a World Culture as demonstrated by the sheer diversity of people and ways on Dinotopia. As to whether he himself believes in this or was pushed on him by the publishers is unknown. But anyways, I thought the New Age angle was very strong from the moment I saw the book. - Aric
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Post by NonStop on Aug 14, 2007 9:19:54 GMT -5
Hmmm. Could be pagan rather than New Age? Is violence necessarily masculine? I see many women who fight unfortunately. Personally, when I read the books, I don't see strong femininity, or even religion, more of just a strong connection with nature, at most. Also, James' east meat, so its less likely he's to be New Age.
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aric
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Post by aric on Aug 14, 2007 17:22:33 GMT -5
Hmmm. Could be pagan rather than New Age? Neo-paganism can be lumped into the New Age movement. Is violence necessarily masculine? I see many women who fight unfortunately. New Age gurus work on the stereotype that violence and aggression are male principles. Just look at the astrological sign for Mars and you'll see how some belief systems link masculinity and aggression. Personally, when I read the books, I don't see strong femininity, It doesn't have to be an overwhelming case. It just has to be there along with the other characteristics of the New Age movement. Looking at Dinotopia as a whole, and most especially Gurney's first book, it's definitely there. or even religion, more of just a strong connection with nature, at most.p Oh, there's definitely a lot of nature-oriented spiritualism. But considering the time frame the first book came out (early 1990s) when that New Age stuff was going pretty strong, it still connects easily to New Age stuff. Also, James' east meat, so its less likely he's to be New Age. Less likely, though I don't think you need to hit all the generic points of New Age in order to be part of the movement. - Aric
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Post by NonStop on Aug 15, 2007 7:15:47 GMT -5
I see. Well, its certanily interesting, who knows? He certanily keeps his beliefs to himself, which I think is a good sign.
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Barry
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Post by Barry on Aug 15, 2007 17:31:38 GMT -5
I see. Well, its certanily interesting, who knows? He certanily keeps his beliefs to himself, which I think is a good sign. Yeah, I myself try to do that. I also try to avoid questions on the subject as much as I possibly can to avoid heated flame wars and shouting matches. I don't believe in shoving it down someones throat to get my point across either. Occasionally, I would have an opinion and throw in a few scriptures if I see it's worth it. Back to James Gurney. The only way to find out if he is or not is to write him.
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Post by NonStop on Aug 16, 2007 2:13:48 GMT -5
I see, well, as much as I disagree with religion, I disagree with religious people who try to a) rationalize their beliefs, or b) shove it down people's throats. So thats cool.
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