What both undoutedly share, and which is the fatal flaw of each (both of whom I love) is their atheism.
I am a mason, born & raised, and I know that if the foundation is out of true, the structure will never be true-can never be.
Nor am I talking about the enjoyment of a particular cake. I'm talking about a world view that eminates from the marrow of an Italian that is both tribal and individualistic; a self perpetuating and self defeating dichotomy.
OK, I’ll try once more: what is your opinion of Paglia’s Arabist leanings? I’ll admit she’s gotten more quiet about it lately but you can find it in many of her books of essays. I’m even doubtful about her attitudes towards Israel but I don’t feel like slogging through all her interviews and essays right now.