To quarrel with the notion that Barbara Kingsolver cannot be considered among the "more distinguished speakers" hoped for by The Chronicle in their Nov. 20 editorial, "For graduation, get 'big name' speakers," I wish to suggest that what should have been asked was: not only distinguished by what, but distinguished for what?
Surely the aim of a commencement speech, if it is to be more than ceremonial, is to leave students wiser than they were about the world they are about to enter. No great commencement speech does not contain good advice. Thus the accomplished are invited to speak to new graduates in order to bring them word of what to expect as they make their first forays into the world. But not all of those who have distinguished themselves by their prowess in business, athletics or public life have distinguished themselves by their understanding.
True, speakers are sought after because their achievements alone can inspire us, but why should we not seek those who have learned the most along the way?
The artist, in this case a most distinguished writer, can serve as an example of accomplishment, and more. She can understand its meaning. Indeed, the vocation of the artist is to convey the understanding of the world one has reached. Before students enter the world, shouldn't they be moved to reflect once more on the meaning of the aims they seek to pursue?
One would have hoped that any misgivings about Kingsolver might have instead had to do with her work or the views she has expressed publicly. At least this would take her more seriously. Whatever one thinks of her views, she has clearly given them a great deal of thought, and we will likely profit by her speech. If there really are reservations about her, we would do well in searching for future speakers to consider whether we would be better served by knocking on the doors of the merely prominent or of the wise.
Raymond A. Mercado
Ph.D. student
Department of Political Science
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