Klarinet Archive - Posting 000713.txt from 2002/05

From: w7wright@-----.net (William Wright)
Subj: Re: [kl] synesthesia, etc.
Date: Wed, 29 May 2002 18:51:02 -0400

<><> Lelia Loban wrote:
We already know that the human brain contains redundant pathways,
allowing people to regain functions formerly performed by areas of the
brain damaged by strokes or even physically removed by surgery or
injury. It won't surprise me if, within my own lifetime, scientists
determine that the cross-wiring of the senses found in people with
full-blown synaesthesia is not rare at all, much less imaginary, but
simply an extreme manifestation of this life-protecting redundancy. Long
live the blue note!

(Actually, it's red, Lelia.) One of the books in Lelia's list ---
Storr, Music and Mind --- appears especially relevant. According to
the online description of this book, the thesis is that music's appeal
derives (in part, at least) from reuniting communication between the
senses and the 'rational processes' that communicated with each other
more fully at birth --- that is, before 'education' --- and thereby
makes the world feel right again.

It will be interesting to see how accurate this description of the book
is, and to see whatever evidence this book offers for the thesis.

I will, of course, offer a report after I've received and read the book.

Cheers,
Bill

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