Re-Colonization and Cured Meats: The Stephen Crane Interview
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By Dick Lowery '82 and Bill Strickland '81
Stephen Crane was a writer, poet and newspaper correspondent. A brother of Delta Upsilon, he attended Syracuse University in the early 1890’s. Crane is recognized as one of the most innovative American literary figures of the late 19th century. He was a prolific writer who published an impressive number of poems, short stories and books until his untimely death at the early age of 29. One of his most famous books, the Red Badge of Courage, is considered a classic and Ernest Hemingway called it “one of the finest books of (American) literature.” Recently, Bill Strickland ’81 and Dick Lowery ’82 had a chance to talk with the late Stephen Crane. Using satellite technology coupled with advanced séance techniques interfaced through an etch-a-sketch, they sat down with Brother Crane to discuss topics like the afterlife, Delta Upsilon re-colonization and the impact of cured meats on 19th century literature. |
Dick Lowery '82 and Bill Strickland '81
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Strickland: Thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.
Lowery: Yes, Brother Crane. Your time is much appreciated. Crane: Who are you people and why am I here? Lowery: We are Syracuse DU alumni from the 21st century and we are with you today to conduct an interview. Crane: Hmm… Bit odd, but, whatever. Let’s get on with it. Strickland: Right! So let’s start off with cured meats. For several years we have worked very diligently on a theory postulating that the consumption of cured meats had a major influence on 19th century American Realist and Impressionist writing movements; and in particular with the development of story themes that focused on a character’s true perception of actual events as opposed to a more stylistic or romanticized narration. Is this true? Crane: No Strickland: Cured meats had no impact at all? Crane: No Lowery: Not even a little bit? Crane: Nope |
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Lowery: All righty then. Let’s move on to the next topic.
Strickland: It is our understanding that you are dead. Crane: That is correct. I am deceased. Strickland: So, how long have you been dead? Crane: I have been quite dead for some time now. I’d say about 116 years. Lowery: How do you like it? Crane: Being dead does have advantages. For example, the taxes are lower, restaurants do not require reservations and most places have ample parking. |
"A Man Said to the Universe - Sir I Exist! However, replied the Universe, the fact has not created in me a sense of obligation" Stephen Crane |
Strickland: Hmm. Interesting. Now then, you were - were you not - a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity while at Syracuse University?
Crane: Were? I still am a DU. Once a DU, always a DU. No matter what condition you are in.
Lowery: Yes. Very good. So tell us, what are your thoughts about DU coming back to Syracuse?
Crane: I think that it is great. You know - DU at Syracuse has a long and venerable tradition. During the national Fraternity’s formative years of the 1800’s Syracuse alumni played an important role in the development of DU’s vision. At the 1890 convention it was Brother Edward C. Morey, Syracuse 1884, who moved that the four founding principles be added to the DU Constitution. Although the spirit of the principles had always pervaded DU, this was the first time that it was formally articulated in writing. If my memory serves me right, Brother Morey’s motion was that, “The objects of this Fraternity shall include the promotion of friendship, the exertion of moral influence, the diffusion of liberal culture, and the advancement of equity in college affairs. It shall be non-secret." The “exertion of moral influence” was amended to “the development of character.”
Lowery: Yeah, that is kind of interesting. But do the four founding principles matter today?
Crane: Sure they matter. And it is interesting to note how they logically tie together. For instance, diffusion of liberal culture - as understood within the 19th century context - was an optimistic viewpoint that individuals can amelioratively participate in civil society by being empowered with liberty, knowledge and equal rights. But to act in a constructive manner requires a person to be of good character to allow wise judgements and prudent actions. Helping to develop men of good character to play a role in an open or “liberal” culture has been a foundational aspiration for DU since its inception and this mission of building these virtues in tomorrow’s leaders are as important today as they have ever been.
Lowery: So are fraternities still relevant on today’s college campuses?
Crane: Absolutely. There are some things that do not go out of style. Times change, technology changes, perhaps some areas of scholastic subject matter may even change. What does not change is human nature and the need for men of quality. The importance of offering positive options for young men to develop their talents and abilities will always be critical. And Greek life – specifically Delta Upsilon - is a proven model with a longstanding track record of doing just that. Think about it. DU was around during the Civil War, the Gilded Age, WW1, the Depression, and WW2 and on up to now. Throughout that time we have been developing young men to be good brothers, good alumni, good citizens and good leaders. Now, sometimes the tactical ways that we need to go about our objective need to be enhanced, updated and adjusted to fit the contemporary conditions, but the foundational mission remains.
Strickland: Back in our day, which was after your day but before today’s day and prior to tomorrow’s day, we used to tell our membership that we needed brothers that would allow us to “Get On Top – and Stay There” – if you know what I mean… wink, wink, nudge, nudge…
Lowery: Ha-ha-ha…I used to like that one.
Crane: You two are a bit boorish, aren’t you?
Lowery: Perhaps. But, only in the sense that we exhibit behavior patterns that are impolite, questionable and untrustworthy.
Crane: You should run for President.
Strickland: Never mind all that. What we mean to say is that DU has a history of pledging talented undergraduates. Of course, there will occasionally be exceptions.
Crane: Yes there will be exceptions. Rick Holland '83 comes to mind. That was truly a stunning setback for the fraternity by any measure.
Strickland: We could not agree with you more. Holland is perhaps the ultimate example of a lapse in standards.
Lowery: No argument here.
Crane: Shocking, really.
Lowery: Downright tragic.
Crane: To that end, the national headquarters is more focused than ever on bringing in the best and brightest, looking for talented young men who aspire to leadership roles. Surely you two would make excellent examples of whom to avoid.
Crane: Were? I still am a DU. Once a DU, always a DU. No matter what condition you are in.
Lowery: Yes. Very good. So tell us, what are your thoughts about DU coming back to Syracuse?
Crane: I think that it is great. You know - DU at Syracuse has a long and venerable tradition. During the national Fraternity’s formative years of the 1800’s Syracuse alumni played an important role in the development of DU’s vision. At the 1890 convention it was Brother Edward C. Morey, Syracuse 1884, who moved that the four founding principles be added to the DU Constitution. Although the spirit of the principles had always pervaded DU, this was the first time that it was formally articulated in writing. If my memory serves me right, Brother Morey’s motion was that, “The objects of this Fraternity shall include the promotion of friendship, the exertion of moral influence, the diffusion of liberal culture, and the advancement of equity in college affairs. It shall be non-secret." The “exertion of moral influence” was amended to “the development of character.”
Lowery: Yeah, that is kind of interesting. But do the four founding principles matter today?
Crane: Sure they matter. And it is interesting to note how they logically tie together. For instance, diffusion of liberal culture - as understood within the 19th century context - was an optimistic viewpoint that individuals can amelioratively participate in civil society by being empowered with liberty, knowledge and equal rights. But to act in a constructive manner requires a person to be of good character to allow wise judgements and prudent actions. Helping to develop men of good character to play a role in an open or “liberal” culture has been a foundational aspiration for DU since its inception and this mission of building these virtues in tomorrow’s leaders are as important today as they have ever been.
Lowery: So are fraternities still relevant on today’s college campuses?
Crane: Absolutely. There are some things that do not go out of style. Times change, technology changes, perhaps some areas of scholastic subject matter may even change. What does not change is human nature and the need for men of quality. The importance of offering positive options for young men to develop their talents and abilities will always be critical. And Greek life – specifically Delta Upsilon - is a proven model with a longstanding track record of doing just that. Think about it. DU was around during the Civil War, the Gilded Age, WW1, the Depression, and WW2 and on up to now. Throughout that time we have been developing young men to be good brothers, good alumni, good citizens and good leaders. Now, sometimes the tactical ways that we need to go about our objective need to be enhanced, updated and adjusted to fit the contemporary conditions, but the foundational mission remains.
Strickland: Back in our day, which was after your day but before today’s day and prior to tomorrow’s day, we used to tell our membership that we needed brothers that would allow us to “Get On Top – and Stay There” – if you know what I mean… wink, wink, nudge, nudge…
Lowery: Ha-ha-ha…I used to like that one.
Crane: You two are a bit boorish, aren’t you?
Lowery: Perhaps. But, only in the sense that we exhibit behavior patterns that are impolite, questionable and untrustworthy.
Crane: You should run for President.
Strickland: Never mind all that. What we mean to say is that DU has a history of pledging talented undergraduates. Of course, there will occasionally be exceptions.
Crane: Yes there will be exceptions. Rick Holland '83 comes to mind. That was truly a stunning setback for the fraternity by any measure.
Strickland: We could not agree with you more. Holland is perhaps the ultimate example of a lapse in standards.
Lowery: No argument here.
Crane: Shocking, really.
Lowery: Downright tragic.
Crane: To that end, the national headquarters is more focused than ever on bringing in the best and brightest, looking for talented young men who aspire to leadership roles. Surely you two would make excellent examples of whom to avoid.
Stephen Crane circa 1894
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Lowery: Uh….yes, yes….Enough of that. Let’s move on. So DU national is raising the bar to try to bring in top talent, but what do you feel the role of the alumni should be?
Crane: The shared experiences of the alumni community is the best testimony of what DU is all about. And at this critical recolonization stage just showing enthusiasm and support is very important. This can be through financial support or getting the word out to other alums. Also, where possible, getting involved with planning activities or even taking an active mentoring role with the soon to be new brothers. The connection and on-going communication between alumni and the undergraduate membership is the lifeblood of the fraternity. Lowery: Well said. Whether it be Bruce Laidlaw, Al Stauderman, Dick Thorpe, Knowlton Foote or the many other alumni that have devoted their time and energy to the house, positive alumni support has a lasting impact on the undergraduate membership. Strickland: That flesh and blood connection is living proof that they are part of something more. Their four years of college matter, but that it is only the beginning of a life-long bond. Crane: Why did you have to say “living” proof? Don’t forget, this is some kind of convoluted séance where you are communicating with the dead. |
Lowery: Right. Sorry. Nothing personal. But, speaking of communication, I was wondering… Is there e-mail in the after-life?
Crane: Heaven does not allow e-mail, but Hell does and they are always rebooting the server down there.
Strickland: We understand that in addition to your acclaim as a writer, you were also the mastermind behind the Snowball Rebellion, one of the most infamous incursions in fraternity annals?
Crane: Well … no. The Snowball Rebellion was staged at Miami University in Ohio in 1848, 23 years before I was born. Of course, it was later part of the pledge exam administered by Brother Laidlaw to the Syracuse DU’s in the 1890s, and has been part of every pledge exam since.
Strickland: So you deny playing a role in the Snowball Rebellion?
Crane: Such torture talking to you two!
Strickland and Lowery: Sorry!
Crane: I was not part of the Snowball Rebellion! I must confess, however, that during my days in Syracuse I did take part in a battle of the swords on the DKE Ice House. If you know what I mean.
Lowery: We can neither confirm nor deny that we know what you mean. That in no way can be taken to mean that there are not those of us who know exactly what you mean. So let’s move the discussion toward some of your literary work. Correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t the Red Badge of Courage a firsthand account of cured meats during the Civil War and how the corned beef Reuben played an integral role at the battle of Gettysburg?
Crane: Dammit man! I have already told you that cured meats had no impact on my writing! And the Red Badge of Courage was a novel portraying the ideals vs. the realities of the Civil War, the dichotomy of courage vs. cowardice. Plus most Civil War historians agree that the nearest decent take out delicatessen within reach of Gettysburg was on West 34th Street in Manhattan which was still a six day horse ride to the Union Army lines even if you placed your order before the lunch time rush. The Reuben played little if any role at Gettysburg!
Strickland: Well, we can agree to disagree about that! But I do think that we can agree that the news of DU coming back to Syracuse is exciting stuff.
Crane: Now that is something that we can agree on.
Lowery: Before we end, I have one last question. What is Elvis really like?
Crane: Elvis is the King and he lives! But in a dead sort of way.
Strickland: Brother Crane, we thank you for your time.
Crane: My pleasure. This interview was truly a forgettable experience.
Editor’s Note: Curing is the addition to meats of some combination of salt, sugar, and/or nitrate for the purposes of preservation, flavor and color. Until the late 19th century, curing was the primary means of preserving meats. Bacon, ham, pastrami, corned beef, salami, hot dogs, and sausages are just some examples of delicious cured meats.
Crane: Heaven does not allow e-mail, but Hell does and they are always rebooting the server down there.
Strickland: We understand that in addition to your acclaim as a writer, you were also the mastermind behind the Snowball Rebellion, one of the most infamous incursions in fraternity annals?
Crane: Well … no. The Snowball Rebellion was staged at Miami University in Ohio in 1848, 23 years before I was born. Of course, it was later part of the pledge exam administered by Brother Laidlaw to the Syracuse DU’s in the 1890s, and has been part of every pledge exam since.
Strickland: So you deny playing a role in the Snowball Rebellion?
Crane: Such torture talking to you two!
Strickland and Lowery: Sorry!
Crane: I was not part of the Snowball Rebellion! I must confess, however, that during my days in Syracuse I did take part in a battle of the swords on the DKE Ice House. If you know what I mean.
Lowery: We can neither confirm nor deny that we know what you mean. That in no way can be taken to mean that there are not those of us who know exactly what you mean. So let’s move the discussion toward some of your literary work. Correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t the Red Badge of Courage a firsthand account of cured meats during the Civil War and how the corned beef Reuben played an integral role at the battle of Gettysburg?
Crane: Dammit man! I have already told you that cured meats had no impact on my writing! And the Red Badge of Courage was a novel portraying the ideals vs. the realities of the Civil War, the dichotomy of courage vs. cowardice. Plus most Civil War historians agree that the nearest decent take out delicatessen within reach of Gettysburg was on West 34th Street in Manhattan which was still a six day horse ride to the Union Army lines even if you placed your order before the lunch time rush. The Reuben played little if any role at Gettysburg!
Strickland: Well, we can agree to disagree about that! But I do think that we can agree that the news of DU coming back to Syracuse is exciting stuff.
Crane: Now that is something that we can agree on.
Lowery: Before we end, I have one last question. What is Elvis really like?
Crane: Elvis is the King and he lives! But in a dead sort of way.
Strickland: Brother Crane, we thank you for your time.
Crane: My pleasure. This interview was truly a forgettable experience.
Editor’s Note: Curing is the addition to meats of some combination of salt, sugar, and/or nitrate for the purposes of preservation, flavor and color. Until the late 19th century, curing was the primary means of preserving meats. Bacon, ham, pastrami, corned beef, salami, hot dogs, and sausages are just some examples of delicious cured meats.
Personal Reflection from Brother Strickland
There is a natural inclination to focus in on the fraternity experience through the micro view of our years as undergrads. Let’s face it, we all like to think that our time was the best time, that our group had the most fun, that we did the craziest things, were the most accomplished, and to this day have the best stories.
Maybe it is age and the growing sentimentality that comes along with it, or perhaps a recognition of our own mortality. Maybe it is the re-colonization efforts bringing so many of us back together or the 30-plus year message of our close friend and brother Rick Holland finally sinking in. Maybe it is a combination of all of those things.
My best friends of 37-plus years are my DU brothers. Through the wild times of college and young adulthood, marriage, children, our successes, our share of both personal and professional failures, and yes, death, these are the people I turn to when something in my life goes sideways, who I try to be there for when they need a hand or a shoulder, and whose company I have grown to appreciate and seek out more than ever.
As Rick has repeatedly reminded me over the years, I would not have these friends – my best friends -- if not for DU. John Newhouse (’82) has a son, Ross, who just graduated from college. Ross told me – and repeated many times to his father over the years -- that he wanted to join a fraternity because he wanted the type of lifelong friendships that he witnessed through us. It is a powerful statement that through childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood, our DU experience had such a profound impact on a young man. How many more out there are like him, people who have been influenced simply by observing our friendships and bond?
DU forever changed my life and the importance of the re-colonization effort is to give future generations of undergraduates that same life-changing opportunity we were blessed with. To all of my brothers who have donated their time, their energy, and yes, their money to the cause – thank you! And for those of you who have thought about doing something, but don’t think you have the time, don’t think you have the resources, or have some other reason that has prevented you from pitching in, I pose just one question; how much better has your life been because you are a Syracuse DU? We have made some great progress, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Help us make this happen for the next Ross Newhouse and all of the other young men who have wished they could have what we have.
- Bill Strickland '81
There is a natural inclination to focus in on the fraternity experience through the micro view of our years as undergrads. Let’s face it, we all like to think that our time was the best time, that our group had the most fun, that we did the craziest things, were the most accomplished, and to this day have the best stories.
Maybe it is age and the growing sentimentality that comes along with it, or perhaps a recognition of our own mortality. Maybe it is the re-colonization efforts bringing so many of us back together or the 30-plus year message of our close friend and brother Rick Holland finally sinking in. Maybe it is a combination of all of those things.
My best friends of 37-plus years are my DU brothers. Through the wild times of college and young adulthood, marriage, children, our successes, our share of both personal and professional failures, and yes, death, these are the people I turn to when something in my life goes sideways, who I try to be there for when they need a hand or a shoulder, and whose company I have grown to appreciate and seek out more than ever.
As Rick has repeatedly reminded me over the years, I would not have these friends – my best friends -- if not for DU. John Newhouse (’82) has a son, Ross, who just graduated from college. Ross told me – and repeated many times to his father over the years -- that he wanted to join a fraternity because he wanted the type of lifelong friendships that he witnessed through us. It is a powerful statement that through childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood, our DU experience had such a profound impact on a young man. How many more out there are like him, people who have been influenced simply by observing our friendships and bond?
DU forever changed my life and the importance of the re-colonization effort is to give future generations of undergraduates that same life-changing opportunity we were blessed with. To all of my brothers who have donated their time, their energy, and yes, their money to the cause – thank you! And for those of you who have thought about doing something, but don’t think you have the time, don’t think you have the resources, or have some other reason that has prevented you from pitching in, I pose just one question; how much better has your life been because you are a Syracuse DU? We have made some great progress, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Help us make this happen for the next Ross Newhouse and all of the other young men who have wished they could have what we have.
- Bill Strickland '81
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