Meaning: The quote "I liked Camille Paglia. I liked her even better when I heard her talk." by Leslie Fiedler, a prominent literary critic, reflects his admiration for Camille Paglia and her speaking abilities. This quote sheds light on the impact of Paglia's public speaking and the influence she had on individuals, including other intellectual figures like Fiedler. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to explore the backgrounds of both Camille Paglia and Leslie Fiedler, as well as the context in which this quote was made.

Camille Paglia is a renowned American academic and social critic known for her provocative and unapologetic views on various cultural and societal issues. She first gained widespread attention with the publication of her groundbreaking book "Sexual Personae: Art and Decadence from Nefertiti to Emily Dickinson" in 1990. Paglia's work challenged traditional interpretations of art, literature, and gender, and she quickly became known for her bold and controversial perspectives.

In addition to her written work, Paglia is also recognized for her dynamic and captivating speaking engagements. She is known for her articulate and passionate delivery, as well as her ability to engage and challenge her audience. Paglia's speaking style is often characterized by its intensity and intellectual rigor, which has earned her a dedicated following and made her a sought-after public intellectual.

Leslie Fiedler, the author of the quote, was a prominent literary critic and scholar known for his influential work in the field of American literature and cultural studies. Fiedler was a pioneer in the exploration of themes related to gender, sexuality, and identity in literature, and his work had a significant impact on literary criticism and cultural theory.

When Fiedler expressed his admiration for Camille Paglia and her speaking abilities, it was a testament to the impact she had on him and others who had the opportunity to hear her speak. Paglia's ability to articulate her ideas in a compelling and persuasive manner likely left a lasting impression on Fiedler, leading him to express his fondness for her both as a thinker and a speaker.

The quote also speaks to the power of public speaking and the influence it can have on individuals. Paglia's ability to communicate her ideas effectively and passionately not only enhanced her reputation as a public intellectual but also endeared her to individuals like Fiedler, who appreciated her even more after experiencing her speaking prowess.

In conclusion, the quote "I liked Camille Paglia. I liked her even better when I heard her talk." by Leslie Fiedler reflects the impact of Camille Paglia's speaking abilities and the influence she had on individuals within intellectual circles. Paglia's dynamic and compelling speaking style, combined with her provocative ideas, left a lasting impression on Fiedler and others who had the opportunity to hear her speak. This quote serves as a testament to the power of public speaking and the ability of individuals like Paglia to captivate and inspire through their words and ideas.