Howard Nemerov: 'I do insist on making what I hope is sense so there's always a coherent narrative or argument that the reader can follow.'

I do insist on making what I hope is sense so there's always a coherent narrative or argument that the reader can follow.

Howard Nemerov's quote, "I do insist on making what I hope is sense so there's always a coherent narrative or argument that the reader can follow," emphasizes the significance of creating a logical and coherent structure in writing. This straightforward interpretation asserts that a clear narrative or argument ensures that readers have a comprehensible and enjoyable reading experience. However, let us delve deeper into this idea by introducing the concept of the Absurd, popularized by philosophers such as Albert Camus. By contrasting the notion of coherence with existential philosophy, we can explore the tension between rationality and the absurdity of human existence.While Nemerov's quote underscores the importance of making sense in writing, it is intriguing to consider whether absolute coherence and logic can truly capture the complexity of human experience. The existential philosophers embarked on such an exploration, questioning the rationality of existence itself. According to them, life lacks inherent meaning and direction, and the pursuit of coherent narratives may overlook the inherent absurdity of human existence.The Absurd challenges our inclination to impose orderly narratives on our lives. It highlights the absurdity of our search for meaning in an inherently chaotic world. In this context, Nemerov's insistence on coherence appears to be in contrast to the existentialist viewpoint. Embracing the philosophy of the Absurd encourages us to grapple with the inherent contradictions and paradoxes that arise from attempting to find purpose and coherence in an uncertain and irrational universe.Nevertheless, it is vital to balance these contrasting viewpoints. While existentialism challenges traditional notions of coherence, it does not completely discard rationality. Instead, it urges us to acknowledge the tension between our desire for coherence and the disordered nature of reality. Nemerov's quote, although seemingly at odds with existentialism, underscores the importance of constructing a narrative or argument that readers can follow. It is through this logical framework that one can navigate and comprehend the underlying chaos and absurdity of existence.In this juxtaposition of ideas, we can appreciate the underlying tension between coherence and the Absurd. While coherence provides structure and aids in comprehension, the Absurd challenges us to recognize the limitations of coherence in capturing the intricate nuances of human experience. It reminds us that life cannot always be neatly boxed into rational narratives, insisting that we confront the irregularities and uncertainties that lie beyond.By acknowledging the Absurd, we can find a middle ground that combines both rationality and existential thought. Recognizing the chaos and irrationality of the world allows us to embrace the absurdities of our own existence while still appreciating the importance of coherence in conveying ideas effectively. A well-crafted narrative or argument, as Nemerov suggests, serves as a guide through the complexities of the human experience, even as it acknowledges the limitations of a purely rational understanding.In conclusion, Howard Nemerov's quote emphasizes the value of coherence in writing. However, by introducing the philosophical concept of the Absurd, we can explore the tension between rationality and the chaos of human existence. While coherence provides structure and guidance, existential philosophy encourages us to acknowledge the inherent absurdity and irregularities in life. Striking a balance between these contrasting viewpoints allows us to appreciate the complexities and uncertainties of existence while retaining the ability to convey meaningful narratives or arguments to our readers.