In a message dated 10/30/2007 8:38:20 A.M. Pacific Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

Perhaps.
But psychology might owe much of its success and popularity  to the work
and Harvard courses of William James, who would see his friend  Twain in
a much brighter light.

--Jason  Horn




I agree. It is light, after all, that  makes shadows. If Sam's life  held a
lot of guilt and loss, it also carried much joy and happiness. In his
chosen
career he was ultimately successful beyond his wildest dreams. He adored
his
family and they him; had many long friendships, some lifetime friendships.
He
found respectability and riches; was playful and vibrant with mostly good
health throughout his life. Even from slavery and his association with
blacks
came a positive influence--stories and song from Uncle Dan'l, Aunt Hanner,
Uncle
 Ned and the rest on Quarles' farm. What would Sam have been without that
influence? Lorch writes that he first heard a version of the Jumping Frog
tale
at the farm. Sam's life had at least a measure and a half of unrestrained
joy--perhaps these bright lights makes his losses and tragedies seem  darker
by
comparison. The focus on the negative can produce a distorted  picture of
the
man.

David H Fears