May 19, 1974

NYC Planning Comm chmn John E Zuccotti says city's zoning code needs revision; since it was originally drafted in ‘61 it has been altered 1,400 times; Zuccotti says he will make his recommendations on revisions to Mayor Beame within next mo; some of issues to be examined are emphasis on open space that has resulted in tall bldgs out of scale with neighborhood, insufficient attention to community differences, special zoning districts, quality of housing and environmental impact of bldgs on their neighborhoods; Zuccotti por

Though our turbulent era has certainly dismayed and overwhelmed many writers, forcing upon some the role of propagandist or, paradoxically, the role of the indifferent esthete, it is really the best possible time for most writers—the sheer variety of stances, the multiplicity of “styles” available to the serious writer, is amazing. Those who are bewildered by so many ostensibly warring points of view and who wish, naively, for a single code by which literature can be judged, must be reminded of the fact that whenever any reigning theory of esthetics subdues the others (as in the Augustan period), literature simply becomes less and less interesting to write.

Engineering consultant Peter Flack article holds widespread use of solar energy to heat and cool homes is far off because initial costs of installations are prohibitive and existing solar collectors, are not efficient; says that solar‐collector that can be installed at cost of $4 a sq ft must be developed, that substanital incentives should be offered to potential users of solar energy and that Govt research should be expanded and made available to engineers and architects as rapidly as possible; details saving of conventional fuels that use of heating and cooling function of sun would provide (M)

Article on network of grass‐roots activists working to prevent resignation or impeachment of Pres Nixon says 1 common thread running through loosely organized movement is sense of alienation and outrage that has increased as Nixon's troubles have worsened; says ad hoc movement may be strongest force Nxion has going for him at this time; says movement is aggressive, highly partisan and loyal; says most pro‐Nixon activists are conservatives but they do not seem to be motivated by any particular ideology but rather by fear that continued attacks on Pres will usher in anarchy or rule by liberal Dem forces they dread; says there is uniform distrust of natl news media; White House asst Bruce Herschensohn makes public some lrs, including 1 from consulting psychologist from Detroit who analyzes what is wrong with US (L)

W Kerr comments on NY Drama Critics Circle selection of best plays; holds that many are less than adequate