The Re-Emergence of Salons

Recently my friend John, an English professor at a local community college, shared with me an idea to alleviate doldrums in the middle of winter: Once a week, probably on a Sunday evening, he would invite friends over for a light dinner and a literary discussion--poetry, a shared book, whatever. What John had in mind was highly reminiscent of the literary and cultural salons that played such an important role in Europe in the post-Renaissance period, particularly in France.

The idea of salons did not begin in France--they probably first appeared in Italy--but they flowered immensely in France, and became not only influential, but politically and intellectually powerful. Interestingly, most of the early salons were developed and led by women, who found them a means to exercise a greater measure of influence in society. Today salons still exist, and one could even argue that Internet forums represent a sort of online salon, but it might be a good idea for us as a society to develop a renewed interest in the power of salons to educate, stimulate and impact our culture.

In the United States we have many outstanding secondary schools, colleges and universities. However, tragically we also have many underachieving schools--and it may be that a growing number of them are post-secondary. A discussion group offered by an informal salon offers an excellent means for people of different ages and backgrounds to get to know each other, share ideas and learn from each other. Such gatherings can certainly be fun and sociable, and would not have to follow any sort of strict format, unless the group chooses to do so.

A salon can be whatever its members want to make of it. Any group of people with a shared commitment to enriching our society could create a salon, and they could do so for a limited time, or more permanently, as they so choose. Offering refreshments and having a time just to socialize is an excellent way to make an intellectual discussion more palatable to those who are timid about flexing their brains. Our family used to invite a few friends over to read a play out loud, or share favorite poems. Even at a young age my own children greatly enjoyed these evenings. The group could choose to listen to music, view art, discuss politics, spiritual matters, education--the possibilities are endless. Decisions can also be made as to whether to keep the group small or large, or possibly to give birth to new groups.

I plan to do my small part to assist John as he plans his own winter gatherings. Maybe the rest of you would also like to consider getting a group together to explore a topic of your choice. By stimulating our own minds, we are energized to then go out to impact the world. And, hopefully, the increased self-esteem and awareness we will have developed will enable us to work only for positive change.

Thanks,
Gary