Get Ready to Feel Old
Beloit College publishes a "mindset" memo at the beginning of each year that reminds teachers that the new students don't have the same cultural references we oldsters do.
Wes Phillips
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How About a Name for This?
Todd came over the other night. He always comes with a surprise. On this night, his surprise was a rough mix of the John Atkinson-recorded Multi-Purpose Solution album, <i>In Bed</i>.
The Cocktail Party Problem
No, not whether to have that extra martini, but rather how to isolate one voice out of the cacophony.
A Wonderful Essay on Encyclopedias
Well, actually on the 11th edition of the <I>Encyclopedia Britannica</I>, which is a delightful yard or so of bookspace. I used to have this edition, although I didn't realize that many bibliophiles consider it to be <I>the</I> best blend of fact and great writing ever collected. I just read it out of order on many a long winter's night. Somehow, Google just isn't the same.
Wally Wood's "Always Work" Panels
Yes, I have posted to these before, but I didn't know the back story and the panels were poorly reproduced. Joel Johnson went out and <I>bought</I> Wood's memo to himself and posts high-resolution scans. He also tells us the real story behind "Wally Wood's 22 Panels That Always Work."
Nick Hornby on How to Read
Gosh, I love Nick Hornby. He says there <I>is</I> a golden rule to reading: "And please, please stop patronizing those who are reading a book—<I>The Da Vinci Code</I>, maybe—because they are enjoying it.
A Double-Edged E.
Because John is visiting manufacturers in Montreal, he missed this morning's rock awakening. We're gathered in my office, huddled round the sound, listening. "I'm glad John isn't here," says Elizabeth. "I need to break this in slowly."
Frank Black(s)
I've always been a huge Pixies fan. I was so excited at 2004's reunited tour that I practically needed a minder to get me to the gig. But Frank Black solo, now there's a whole other experience.
Take Two Wallers and Call Me in the Morning
I've been fighting a summer cold and feeling pretty punk, but Fats Waller can make anybody feel good.
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Weird Al Yankovic's New Song
"Don't download this song<BR>
Don't go pirating music all day long<BR>
Go buy the CD like you know you should<BR>
Oh don't download this song.