Books Quote by Kathrine Kressmann Taylor
““In such an atmosphere discussion filled all of our time that was not spent over our books. The professors held open house at their homes for the students who attended their seminars, which were in themselves advanced classes for discussion; a topic would be announced and the talk would continue through a blue haze of tobacco smoke into the small hours––after which we would relax for supper and for music. These evenings provided almost our sole social diversion. We were not at the university to play but to learn, and after a lecture in the classroom we would form little groups, gathering on the grounds or hunting empty seminar rooms and arguing excitedly for hours. These gatherings had a name. They were called the Steh-Convent, which can be translated with approximate accuracy as the “standing convention,” and for them we always sought out acquaintances with whom we vigorously disagreed.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Book of Answers, 1938
Intense intellectual gatherings foster deep learning, camaraderie, and vigorous debate beyond formal curricula.
In simple terms: Discussion fuels learning and community.
Key Takeaway
Engage in passionate, informal scholarly debates.
Themes
education
community
dialogue
intellectualism
tradition
Mood
nostalgic
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- university life
- study groups
- literary salons
- academic clubs
Key Concepts
Socratic method
informal learning
social bonding
Questions to Reflect On
- What value do informal discussions add to education?
- How can inclusive dialogue be ensured?
A Different Perspective
Informal settings may exclude those uncomfortable with heated debate.
