Beneath the Wheel

Beneath the Wheel: A Novel | Hermann Hesse

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One of Hesse‘s lesser-known works, this book depicts a gifted student‘s fall from academic grace. Hans has his childhood eaten away under increasing studies, and succumbs to a nervous disorder during his first year at academy.

I loved this book 20 years ago, but not as much this time. A few passages get heavy-handed with “the message” and interrupt the style and pace. Still, Hesse‘s writing is glorious and this book deserves more attention.

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ravenlee

Beneath the Wheel: A Novel | Hermann Hesse

“...there exists a deep gulf between genius and the teaching profession.”

This whole passage is about teachers struggling with “genius” students and trying to quash their independent spirits; then those who survive to become renowned are later held up as shining alumni.

I know most teachers don‘t fit this mold, and I don‘t claim to be a genius, but I had several teachers who behaved this way. 😡 My mom told me once 👇🏻

ravenlee that sometimes you‘re smarter than the teacher and they know it; and that she could fight a specific battle for me (misgraded test) but it would only make the rest of the year more difficult and I just needed to learn how to handle that situation because it would likely happen again. 4y

thebacklistbook I had a teacher in eighth grade that taught me for Phys Ed. She flunked me her term claiming I was constantly skipping class. I never skipped. I chose weight room whenever offered and wasn't exactly a standout performer. She never taught in weight room. Also she docked me for a prearranged trip that was played with the school. Called her on it after receiving the report card. She wouldn't budge on the f. Adjusted it higher to reflect trip dates. 4y

thebacklistbook That should say okayed with the school. 4y

ravenlee @thebacklistbook that‘s awful! Sounds like she was on a power trip. 4y

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