A Gathering Of Men

The very idea of men gathering to talk about their lives and emotions would raise the eyebrows of most males. It sounds suspicious...different...probably unproductive. Throw into the formula a poet as moderator, and I think we can safely say that most men would scurry to the couch, where it's safe, crack a brewski, and watch some football. Yet, in this particular gathering, filmed in Austin, Texas, poet Robert Bly proves to be a most welcome mentor to men who are struggling with the confusions of modern life. Intercut with the group segments are Bly's comments with moderator Bill Moyers. Drawing from a wide variety of inspirations--poetry, song, fairy tales, mythology, psychology and politics--Bly compares the traditional images of men with the current "lack of feeling" that seems to characterize the male population. One of his best examples is former President Ronald Reagan who, according to Bly, was the first President to ever spend his entire term in office "in denial." According to Bly, the problem with so many men today is that they have become lost souls. "The old male initiators--King Arthur would be one--are interested in the soul of the young man. That's what the young men are missing, there aren't any older men who are interested in their souls." Not everyone will agree with Bly's diagnosis or proposed remedies. Some single mothers of adolescent sons will take automatic umbrage at Bly's firm belief that only an older male can bring about the successful transition from boy to man. Yet, whether one agrees or not, there is certainly more food for thought in this rich ninety minutes of speculation than can be found in a couple dozen so-called self-help tapes. Highly recommended. (Available from: Mystic Fire Video, P.O. Box 1092, Cooper Station, New York, NY 10276.)