Interesting extract from Amos Oz's new book Jews and Words, published in the latest Kings Place magazine. I think it must have been reprinted from somewhere else, as the date of publication quoted has already passed. It has some interesting things to say about identity.
A textline is more important than a bloodline - that texts are essential to continuity.
Identity can transcend physical monuments, family ties and genetic markers.
The greatest value a culture provides to world civilisation is measured in its literature.
Continuity in a culture consists of intergenerational conversations.
There seems to be a "primary duty" in almost all cultures to pass on a patrofilial memory.
Teaching is essential to the survival of a culture.
Illiteracy is the greatest disgrace imaginable.
Narratives are key to the continuity of identity.
Written texts safeguard the ancient narratives.
Bookish cultures generate both teachers and students.
A culture that gets the process of teaching right can seldom fail.
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