One of the most famous misunderstood lines in all of literature is Juliet’s balcony query: “Oh Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” As most of you probably know, the archaic “wherefore” means “why.” But the misconception that the word means … Continue reading →
I went out dancing the other night. No, not ballet. My ballet days are over, I’m afraid. And no, most assuredly not the tango. My tango days are over, I’m very happy to say. This was dancing to the music … Continue reading →
I used to play the cello. Well, perhaps “play” is too strong a word. I was chosen for the instrument (no, that’s not a typo; I was chosen for it, rather than the reverse) in fifth grade, at the public … Continue reading →
Here’s a little relief from politics and its discontents–excerpts from a discussion by Robert Frost entitled “Conversations on the Craft of Poetry” (1959).” Any aspiring poets in the crowd, please listen to a guy who knows–who really knows. In response … Continue reading →
I’ve been tagged for one of those meme things by my friend Fausta, “five things you don’t know about me.” Ah. what to divulge? I have an unusual breadth of choice, since some of the most basic facts about me … Continue reading →
You think I sing a repetitious dirge “Iraq, Vietnam; please let the two diverge!” But here’s some news: the Democrats they urge, “Oh Mr. Bush, don’t recommend a surge!” And why? They say we’re surely on the verge Of failure. … Continue reading →
Last night I went to the movies to see “Dreamgirls.” I wanted some light entertainment, and I got it. I was in Brooklyn, and the audience at the large and crowded theater I happened to go to was approximately 99% … Continue reading →
‘TWAS THE BLOGGER’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS ‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the ”˜sphere Bloggers were glad to see Christmas draw near. Their PCs were turned off and all put away The bloggers were swearing to take off … Continue reading →
I went to a Richard Thompson concert the other night. Who’s he? Just one of those old guys (in his fities!) still churning out the music and touring round the world. He’s never become a household word despite a career … Continue reading →
Those of you who follow this blog know that when I bought my house I bought the responsibility of gardening, and I’ve tried to step up to the plate and do right by it. I’ve posted photos of the garden … Continue reading →
I’m back, after having gotten an eyeful and an earful of Paris. It was the best of times, it was the worst of times That’s just hyperbole, for the sake of a literary reference; but the truth is that it … Continue reading →
Today is the first day of fall. I never quite get that date right, because it drifts around in confusing fashion (here’s a guidepost for those of you who care about such things). This year it also happens to be … Continue reading →