Oh I wouldn't hold a rigid view on that my friend. Each time is different and sometimes I feel to be extra considerate of others' sensibilities and other times less so. We all have our vulnerabilities.

I am glad you found the letters. I found it in the local library, hardback edition. Looking at the date on that piece, I know it took them two years to publish so that was a lifetime ago. Funnily enough, I was never a big reader of his but like you did Of Mice and Men at school. I do feel strangely connected to him though. Bly would speak about him at events and I took a road trip to Monterey once, here: https://medium.com/@simonheathcote/steinbecks-quest-for-king-arthur-38e22932805f