An incredible essay from blind poet and nonfiction writer, Stephen Kuusisto. Inspiration porn—the spiritual exploitation of disabled people—is harmful. But real inspiration is something we all need.
(The photograph above shows poet and nonfiction writer Stephen Kuusisto posing as comedian Marty Feldman. Kuusisto has pulled his sport coat over the top of his head, thereby framing his face as if he’s wearing a dark cowl. His facial expression is that of an enthusiastic duffer or dunce. His eyes (blind) are exophthalmic. The real Marty Feldman was also visually impaired.)
Disclaimer: I am not now nor have I ever been a member of the Inspiration Porn Party.
No one who is disabled should be in doubt about the deleterious effects of inspiration. Who would want to be Tiny Tim? If Tiny Tim isn’t fresh in your mind, here’s the famous passage from “A Christmas Carol” in which Bob Cratchit and his wife discuss their crippled boy:
“And how did little Tim behave?” asked Mrs Cratchit, when she had rallied Bob on his credulity and Bob had hugged his…
View original post 1,514 more words
On the Blink 
This article is beautifully written. I literally got sucked right into it. Excellent piece of journalism. Your writing style is so fluid and is packed full of words that I’ve never even seen before. I feel like you inspire me. This article is perfect. Thanks so much for sharing
Thank you, but I actually didn’t write this one. It’s from Stephen Kuusisto, who is an accomplished poet and nonfiction writer. 🙂
Oh. I understand. Still, thanks for sharing because it really opened up my mind.