The legacy of Lewis Lapham, a figure synonymous with literary journalism and intellectual discourse, seemed precarious following his passing last year. His brainchild, Lapham’s Quarterly—a distinguished journal intertwining history with contemporary thought—had ceased publication, leaving its future in limbo. Yet, in a turn of events that would surely please its late founder, Bard College has stepped in to acquire the magazine, ensuring that Lapham’s unique vision will continue to resonate in the literary world.
Founded in 2007, Lapham’s Quarterly carved a niche for itself in the crowded landscape of periodicals. Each issue explored a significant theme—be it “Night” or “Happiness”—bridging the gap between historical perspectives and modern issues through long-form articles and literary excerpts from iconic writers like Shakespeare. This innovative approach not only provided depth but also fostered a dialogue about crucial contemporary issues, making the journal a beloved resource for those seeking more than just surface-level commentary.
Leon Botstein, the president of Bard College, underscored the importance of this acquisition, stating, “This will benefit all our students. To understand how it’s possible to talk intelligently, without jargon, about important ideas and controversies is crucial in today’s discourse.” His sentiment reflects a broader concern in modern academia and media—an increasing detachment from clear and accessible communication. By taking over Lapham’s Quarterly, Bard aims to uphold Lapham’s mission of fostering thoughtful dialogue that transcends the often convoluted language found in contemporary academic and journalistic writing.
The acquisition comes at a pivotal moment, as Lapham’s Quarterly had been awaiting its fate amidst uncertainty. The American Agora Foundation, which previously published the journal, will dissolve, transferring its most valuable asset—the list of 17,500 paying subscribers—along with the publication itself to Bard. This subscriber base not only represents a dedicated readership but also signals a potential pathway for revitalizing the magazine. As Paul Morris, the magazine’s publisher and executive editor, noted, “It’s my great lament that [Lapham] couldn’t be here for this conversation,” emphasizing the loss felt by many in the literary community regarding Lapham’s absence during this significant transition.
Looking ahead, Bard plans to release the latest issue, which Lapham had already begun curating before his death, focused on the theme of energy. Additionally, issues titled “Islands” and “Folly” are in the pipeline, though it remains uncertain whether the magazine will maintain its regular publication schedule moving forward. The operational stewardship of Lapham’s Quarterly will fall under the auspices of Bard’s Hannah Arendt Center, an institution dedicated to the intersection of politics and humanities, aligning well with Lapham’s ethos of exploring complex societal themes.
The revival of Lapham’s Quarterly under Bard College not only preserves Lapham’s legacy but also revitalizes a platform that champions thoughtful engagement with the world. As the landscape of journalism continues to evolve, the commitment to long-form, intellectually rigorous content remains a vital counterbalance to the rapid-fire nature of modern media. In an age where soundbites often overshadow substance, the continuation of Lapham’s Quarterly stands as a testament to the enduring value of deep, reflective thought—a mission Lewis Lapham would undoubtedly endorse.
As we await the magazine’s return, one can only hope that it will continue to challenge its readers, provoke discussion, and inspire a new generation to think critically about the world around them, much as Lapham himself did throughout his remarkable career.
