Although Allan Bloom in "The Closing of the American Mind" and Mike Rose in "Lives on the Boundary" reveal an almost endless list of obvious differences of perspective on literacy and higher education in America, both take divergent yet similar routes to create a permanent place for liberal education. Both Bloom and Rose use the "Gothic Cathedral" metaphor to describe the spiritual aspect of literacy, examining the youthful passion which leads to the uplifting freedom and empowerment of the soul. Both promote freedom from mediocrity and limitations for their students; both want their students to benefit directly from stored knowledge. Based on years of experience in preparing students for productive careers and successful adult lives, both argue for student competence in the social and cultural language of democracy. Despite the differences in emphasis and example, Bloom and Rose are complementary in that both represent a dynamic and passionate search for literacy. As their arguments emerge, reflections and duplications of each other become evident. To omit or devalue one of the viewpoints would be to remove the spiritual focus as well as an integral part of this complex issue. (KEH)