THE AGE FOR GENIUS

Longfellow and Hawthorne were graduated from Bowdoin a century ago, in commemoration of which event their alma mater has just held an institute of modern literature, attended by a score of America's foremost poets, novelists, dramatists, essayists, and scholars. The aim of this institute was to stimulate creative and artistic endeavor, especially in the colleges of New England--a memorial most in keeping with the spirit and achievement of these great figures.

Such an experiment, perhaps the germ of a wider literary movement, has come at a propitious time. The much-abused and misunderstood renaissance of America's younger generation, of which the flapper-is commonly considered the only product, is-well started. Youth has asserted itself variously and with considerable effect. Up to this time it has had to fight for recognition and being immature, has in its enthusiasm acted often rashly or gone to sensational extremes. All contests for independence are characterized by such exhibitions--witness the French Revolution.

The first phase of intense feeling has now passed. Like mature revolutionists, youth now becomes sober and looks round. There has been notable achievement inevitably marred by excesses, yet despite the latter, the success of their efforts is indisputable. And as a result of the struggle, college men, and not a mere handful either, have established themselves in the literary firmament. Those who come after, those who have not as yet graduated from college, will find their way easier. They will not be swayed by the heat of conflict; nor will they have to contend with overwhelming opposition. If possessed with talent and energy, college men may now develop their literary powers in as inspiring and favorable a milieu as has never before been granted to creative genius.