Conversation 20 - Excerpt

Jason: …Our next paper’s on the 19th century up to World War One, right?

Professor: Yes, that’s right.

J: I’m interested in the Symbolists, and I’ve been reading about Rimbaud- he’s kind of seminal, isn’t he?

P: He certainly is- and in a way Rimbaud is a topic already narrowed down for you. He has a very small opus- he stopped writing when he was 21 and ran off to become a trader in Africa.

J: Yes– and I can identify! (laughs)

P: (laughs) Oh, no you don’t! I expect good things from you- starting with your next essay. Just remember: control your topic, don’t let your topic control you. You’ve only got three pages, so be concise, be pithy.

J: OK, I’ll try. Thanks very much for your time, Dr Wescott. I really appreciate it.