[by Tasmim]
Stanley Diamond creates an argument against Keats’ idea of joy being only derived from beauty and truth. Diamond describes Keats’ perception of joy as platonic, which google defined as an intimate and affectionate love or friendship. Platonic love is a deep appreciation of ideal beauty that two individuals can have for one and other without desiring a physical relationship. I believe Diamond uses the word platonic to describe Keats’ idea because throughout the article, The Beautiful and the Ugly are One Thing, the Sublime Another: A Reflection of culture, Diamond stresses that joy can not only come from the good things in life, but also the hardships one faces as well. Some synonyms of platonic are ideal and utopian, which further explains Keats’ perception of joy and the essence of truth coming from a place where there are no difficulties or challenges¾only beauty. However, Diamond refutes Keats’ argument; according to him joy can be found in a place where there is experience and growth. A place where one conquers their own challenges, achieves emancipation from bondage, and overcomes any kind of obstacles blocking their path. These experiences Diamond described are what he believes makes a person grow. This growth comes from both good and bad experiences in life, and together they create joy.
My word was also related to the topic of beauty bringing joy and after reading your post it helped me understand Stanley Diamonds argument against Keats a lot better. Its interesting how good and bad experiences can both contribute to joy.
I liked how you gave synonyms in your blog and defined platonic, which in turn helped us to understand your whole point. Also, I liked how you concluded your blog saying that both good and bad are necessary, as I believe in the same thing, for if there wasn’t bad, then you wouldn’t know what good is.