Art, truth and ‘The Birth of a Nation’
Regarding “Separating the Art From the Artist” [Oct. 11]. I am finding it hard to accept the apparent rebuff at the box office of “The Birth of a Nation,” particularly after seeing the film. It is an exceptional piece of artistry and a vital portrait of our American experience in trying to live up to ideals we say we have. No one should miss it. What troubles me is this: Are we being particular here with this extraordinary film because it’s about the racist curse we are struggling to erase from our country and its director is black? The curse is there. Go look at it. Do we have the courage to do that?