January 28, 2010
Demesne
\di-‘man\ n 1: legal possession of land as one’s own 2a: the land attached to a mansion b: estate c: region or territory 3: realm or domain
A video game is a form of entertainment within which there are many demesnes. Get a certain amount of coins or fight the appropriate number of villains, you are set to continue to the next realm not certain of what awaits you. Life is akin to video games in a sense, we progress to each new stage in our lives waiting to see what life brings us and what strategies we can use to overcome hard courses while trying to reach the inevitable reward, whether it be money, love, friendship or materialistic items.
However, while video games are a pretty good metaphor for life’s games, there are many facets that are conveniently excluded such as magical powers (despite what some people may say), three lives, or the ever-popular pause button! Life has many various domains as well but each of those is definitely harder to survive than a video game where you get an award ceremony for completing each level successfully. The majority of the time, we are required to finish without much appreciation or recognition, the ability to see the light at the end of the tunnel slightly diminished. However, have hope because the next level will teach us new things that will continue to prepare us for the one ahead.
Friday, January 29, 2010
ONEROUS
January 27, 2010
Onerous
\’ä-ne-res\ adj: 1: involving, imposing, or constituting a burden : troublesome 2: having legal obligations that outweigh the advantages*
One of the most famous Disney movies is the story of Cinderella. A story about a young girl who is subject to her horrible stepmother’s behavior after her father passes away. Cinderella is treated akin to a slave, having to wash the floors, bring her stepmother tea every morning, be subservient to her unfortunate stepsisters and maintain the household from top to bottom. The most beloved attribute about this character however, is that she manages to do all these chores with a smile on her face; being accompanied by her friends, the mice and other animals. As we all know, Cinderella eventually meets her Prince Charming and lives, yup you guessed it, happily ever after.
Cinderella perhaps is not the best example of an individual who finds herself in an onerous situation, because despite her circumstances, she manages to get everything done with a smile on her face, knowing there is something better that awaits her. Perhaps even though dirty floors need mopping, and garbage needs to be taken out, things could be much more difficult and what would we have to look forward to if we didn’t have such a hard time overcoming the obstacles that are often thrown at us?
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Onerous
\’ä-ne-res\ adj: 1: involving, imposing, or constituting a burden : troublesome 2: having legal obligations that outweigh the advantages*
One of the most famous Disney movies is the story of Cinderella. A story about a young girl who is subject to her horrible stepmother’s behavior after her father passes away. Cinderella is treated akin to a slave, having to wash the floors, bring her stepmother tea every morning, be subservient to her unfortunate stepsisters and maintain the household from top to bottom. The most beloved attribute about this character however, is that she manages to do all these chores with a smile on her face; being accompanied by her friends, the mice and other animals. As we all know, Cinderella eventually meets her Prince Charming and lives, yup you guessed it, happily ever after.
Cinderella perhaps is not the best example of an individual who finds herself in an onerous situation, because despite her circumstances, she manages to get everything done with a smile on her face, knowing there is something better that awaits her. Perhaps even though dirty floors need mopping, and garbage needs to be taken out, things could be much more difficult and what would we have to look forward to if we didn’t have such a hard time overcoming the obstacles that are often thrown at us?
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
NOETIC
January 26th 2010
Noetic
\no-‘etik\ adj : of, relating to, or based on the intellect
I admire people who purposely put themselves in situations that are foreign to them, surrounded by people who may know more than they do about current events, the latest fashion trends, or even (as my professor once called it), useless cocktail party trivia. While it can be nerve wracking to be in the company of said individuals, the feeling of empowering your mind to absorb the noetic atmosphere in which you find yourself is kind of liberating.
I have always had a hard time conversing with kids, not only because they more often than not exhaust my patience before I can get a sentence out, but also because I have difficulty relating to people who cannot hold a conversation on an adult level. Please don’t mischaracterize me as being judgemental and shallow; I just find intellectual diatribes more stimulating than constantly trying to figure out a way to answer the next question of “Why?” coming my way.
There is a scene in Dawson’s Creek, (for a teen soap, it has taught me a lot about life), when Joey brings Pacey to a cocktail party hosted by her future alma mater. Pacey is insecure with himself, therefore allowing to partake in the evening’s events wholeheartedly and without feeling like he cannot contribute anything worthwhile is almost impossible. The feeling of being around men and women who have obtained a more abundant amount of knowledge than you but more importantly are willing to share it is mind-blowing all on its own!
Noetic
\no-‘etik\ adj : of, relating to, or based on the intellect
I admire people who purposely put themselves in situations that are foreign to them, surrounded by people who may know more than they do about current events, the latest fashion trends, or even (as my professor once called it), useless cocktail party trivia. While it can be nerve wracking to be in the company of said individuals, the feeling of empowering your mind to absorb the noetic atmosphere in which you find yourself is kind of liberating.
I have always had a hard time conversing with kids, not only because they more often than not exhaust my patience before I can get a sentence out, but also because I have difficulty relating to people who cannot hold a conversation on an adult level. Please don’t mischaracterize me as being judgemental and shallow; I just find intellectual diatribes more stimulating than constantly trying to figure out a way to answer the next question of “Why?” coming my way.
There is a scene in Dawson’s Creek, (for a teen soap, it has taught me a lot about life), when Joey brings Pacey to a cocktail party hosted by her future alma mater. Pacey is insecure with himself, therefore allowing to partake in the evening’s events wholeheartedly and without feeling like he cannot contribute anything worthwhile is almost impossible. The feeling of being around men and women who have obtained a more abundant amount of knowledge than you but more importantly are willing to share it is mind-blowing all on its own!
Tub-Thumper
January 25, 2010
Tub-thumper
\’teb-‘them-per\ n : a vociferous supporter (as of a cause) *
If someone were to ask me what one of the most important attributes an individual could possess, my answer would be, without a doubt, passion. Passion is the gateway to fighting for any cause effectively; incorporating hard work, dedication, camaraderie and a feeling of satisfaction. Passion is perhaps the most crucial ingredient needed to successfully complete any community service event, lecture, plea for funding or a change of thought initiated by a simple conversation.
My passion has been lying dormant for a very long time and it is not until I start organizing another event to raise money for Haiti Relief Efforts, get the urge to write, or stand up for myself that it makes its presence known again. I am passionate about many things, all of them impacting my life positively. Whenever I complete a project that benefits the surrounding community, I welcome the overwhelming sensation of warmth that is the familiar sense of fervor associated with a good cause and know that despite how long my zeal may remain latent, when aroused, it is a clear indicator of the true tub-thumper I am.
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Tub-thumper
\’teb-‘them-per\ n : a vociferous supporter (as of a cause) *
If someone were to ask me what one of the most important attributes an individual could possess, my answer would be, without a doubt, passion. Passion is the gateway to fighting for any cause effectively; incorporating hard work, dedication, camaraderie and a feeling of satisfaction. Passion is perhaps the most crucial ingredient needed to successfully complete any community service event, lecture, plea for funding or a change of thought initiated by a simple conversation.
My passion has been lying dormant for a very long time and it is not until I start organizing another event to raise money for Haiti Relief Efforts, get the urge to write, or stand up for myself that it makes its presence known again. I am passionate about many things, all of them impacting my life positively. Whenever I complete a project that benefits the surrounding community, I welcome the overwhelming sensation of warmth that is the familiar sense of fervor associated with a good cause and know that despite how long my zeal may remain latent, when aroused, it is a clear indicator of the true tub-thumper I am.
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Sunday, January 24, 2010
COLUBRINE
January 24, 2010
Colubrine
\’käl-ye-‘brin\ adj 1: relating to a snake 2: relating to a large family (Colubridae) of chiefly nonvenomous snakes.*
Recently, I have developed what might be considered an unhealthy affinity for The Animal Planet. At the risk of sounding like my mother, I find it so fascinating. There is one show in particular that really strikes my fancy; I’m Alive. This show tells the stories of individuals who have been attacked by members of different wild habitats and who, against the odds, survive to tell the tail.
The majority of attacks are colubrine. One episode in particular told the story of an older man who worked with venomous snakes. While trying to shed a Taipan, one of the deadliest snakes in the world, he was bitten and soon was dizzy and out of breath. Watching this man’s downward spiral toward the afterworld was nervewracking, especially because the anti-venom that he needed was in San Diego and had to be flown out. Ok, no problem, you say? Think again. It was September 11th, 2001; no planes were allowed to fly.
After pulling some strings and getting him the anti-venom, the individual made a full recovery. Despite the harrowing stories of adventure and chance, The Animal Planet still makes me go a little wild!
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Colubrine
\’käl-ye-‘brin\ adj 1: relating to a snake 2: relating to a large family (Colubridae) of chiefly nonvenomous snakes.*
Recently, I have developed what might be considered an unhealthy affinity for The Animal Planet. At the risk of sounding like my mother, I find it so fascinating. There is one show in particular that really strikes my fancy; I’m Alive. This show tells the stories of individuals who have been attacked by members of different wild habitats and who, against the odds, survive to tell the tail.
The majority of attacks are colubrine. One episode in particular told the story of an older man who worked with venomous snakes. While trying to shed a Taipan, one of the deadliest snakes in the world, he was bitten and soon was dizzy and out of breath. Watching this man’s downward spiral toward the afterworld was nervewracking, especially because the anti-venom that he needed was in San Diego and had to be flown out. Ok, no problem, you say? Think again. It was September 11th, 2001; no planes were allowed to fly.
After pulling some strings and getting him the anti-venom, the individual made a full recovery. Despite the harrowing stories of adventure and chance, The Animal Planet still makes me go a little wild!
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
NOCUOUS
January 23, 2010
Nocuous
\’nä-kye-wes\ adj : harmful*
At my place of employment, there are many many children; so many that it almost seems as though they are crawling out of the woodwork, (that in itself is harmful to my sanity). In addition to these little angels, are their babysitters, au pairs, grandmothers, cousins, older siblings, anyone watching them besides their mother or father. It is interesting to watch these children react to their primary caretaker with love and affection and almost repulsively look at their parents when told to stop hiding under the clothing rack.
We know of a multitude of things in the world that are nocuous to our children; strangers, sharp objects, no education, negligence, unhealthy balance of human interaction because of heavy reliance on television and other sorted electronics. Yet we cannot as a society possibly believe that having our child practically raised by someone other than ourselves is innocuous, can we? To have an important and well established career is great and well deserved in most instances, but isn’t it just as crucial to make sure our families are stable units, with children who learn to respect any adult figure and who can grow up knowing they have solid roots with parents who took them to the bathroom instead of the nanny?
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Nocuous
\’nä-kye-wes\ adj : harmful*
At my place of employment, there are many many children; so many that it almost seems as though they are crawling out of the woodwork, (that in itself is harmful to my sanity). In addition to these little angels, are their babysitters, au pairs, grandmothers, cousins, older siblings, anyone watching them besides their mother or father. It is interesting to watch these children react to their primary caretaker with love and affection and almost repulsively look at their parents when told to stop hiding under the clothing rack.
We know of a multitude of things in the world that are nocuous to our children; strangers, sharp objects, no education, negligence, unhealthy balance of human interaction because of heavy reliance on television and other sorted electronics. Yet we cannot as a society possibly believe that having our child practically raised by someone other than ourselves is innocuous, can we? To have an important and well established career is great and well deserved in most instances, but isn’t it just as crucial to make sure our families are stable units, with children who learn to respect any adult figure and who can grow up knowing they have solid roots with parents who took them to the bathroom instead of the nanny?
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
REVENANT
January 22, 2010
Revenant
\’re-ve-‘nän\ n: one that returns after death or a long absence *
I remember a lot of things about my grandfather. I remember his white hair and the way it used to stand up wistfully as though it were just roused from a deep sleep. I remember his ability to completely lose himself with the races, or the way he used to call my grandmother “Mum” in a way that made you chuckle or want to yell for Nana Flo to answer him just so he’d stop repeating himself. I remember his love for the islands and how he yearned to write his history down for others to read. I fondly reminisce of the way he used to smile at me when I said something that awed him or the way he got frustrated when people were still over even though it was his bedtime.
Right after he passed, I often wanted him to be a revenant; sitting in the living room in Turtle Cove watching the races welcoming me as my wearied soul entered the house, accompanying his wife of what would have been 58 years to my college graduation, reading my latest piece or eventually sending me his.
However, perhaps when we lose someone we love, it’s not their literal presence we need, it is only a reminder in the simplest of places that everything will be irie.
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Revenant
\’re-ve-‘nän\ n: one that returns after death or a long absence *
I remember a lot of things about my grandfather. I remember his white hair and the way it used to stand up wistfully as though it were just roused from a deep sleep. I remember his ability to completely lose himself with the races, or the way he used to call my grandmother “Mum” in a way that made you chuckle or want to yell for Nana Flo to answer him just so he’d stop repeating himself. I remember his love for the islands and how he yearned to write his history down for others to read. I fondly reminisce of the way he used to smile at me when I said something that awed him or the way he got frustrated when people were still over even though it was his bedtime.
Right after he passed, I often wanted him to be a revenant; sitting in the living room in Turtle Cove watching the races welcoming me as my wearied soul entered the house, accompanying his wife of what would have been 58 years to my college graduation, reading my latest piece or eventually sending me his.
However, perhaps when we lose someone we love, it’s not their literal presence we need, it is only a reminder in the simplest of places that everything will be irie.
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
INFINITESIMAL
January 21, 2010
Infinitesimal
\in-‘fi-ne-‘te-se-mel\ adj 1: taking on values arbitrarily close to but greater than zero 2: immeasurably or incalculably small.*
When a photograph is taken, not only is the image viewed as it was, but a story is told to the photographer and the various audiences to which it is inspected. The story that is shared with many different people is not at all representative of the infinitesimal size of each pixel that is responsible for the ultimate end result.
Whether it be wire angels blowing their horns in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree or a statue that fosters emotion while telling tales of adventure of a new people about to set foot in a new city, photographs do not signify the pixilation or perhaps even the amount of work it took to gain the picture. It just conveys a story with a myriad of varying interpretations for all who gaze upon it.
*letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Infinitesimal
\in-‘fi-ne-‘te-se-mel\ adj 1: taking on values arbitrarily close to but greater than zero 2: immeasurably or incalculably small.*
When a photograph is taken, not only is the image viewed as it was, but a story is told to the photographer and the various audiences to which it is inspected. The story that is shared with many different people is not at all representative of the infinitesimal size of each pixel that is responsible for the ultimate end result.
Whether it be wire angels blowing their horns in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree or a statue that fosters emotion while telling tales of adventure of a new people about to set foot in a new city, photographs do not signify the pixilation or perhaps even the amount of work it took to gain the picture. It just conveys a story with a myriad of varying interpretations for all who gaze upon it.
*letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
EXCLAVE
January 20, 2010
Exclave
\’eks-‘klav\ n : a portion of a country separated from the main part and constituting an enclave in respect to the surrounding territory.
When taking math in college (the first time), my professor had what most of the class thought was a British accent and indeed it was. The students who thought she had an English accent on the other hand were wrong. She was in fact British because she had been born and raised in Jersey, an exclave of Great Britain. She educated us that England was in fact an island in the country of Great Britain and that Jersey was part of that great nation as well. Does the term, “you learn something new every day,” come to mind?
Exclave
\’eks-‘klav\ n : a portion of a country separated from the main part and constituting an enclave in respect to the surrounding territory.
When taking math in college (the first time), my professor had what most of the class thought was a British accent and indeed it was. The students who thought she had an English accent on the other hand were wrong. She was in fact British because she had been born and raised in Jersey, an exclave of Great Britain. She educated us that England was in fact an island in the country of Great Britain and that Jersey was part of that great nation as well. Does the term, “you learn something new every day,” come to mind?
BIRD-DOG
January 19th, 2010
Bird-dog
\’berd-‘dog\ v 1: to watch closely 2: to seek out : follow or detect *
As a child, one of my favorite movies of all time was Harriet the Spy. I loved the way she would just delve right into a “case,” make it her own and write her thoughts and feelings about it. I wanted to write like her, I wanted people to compliment me on my detective skills. I, in short wanted to be Harriet, (or Michelle Trachtenberg playing Harriet).
Next door lived a young man, he was probably my age now and he lived in the lower level apartment with his girlfriend while his mother, (the landlady) lived upstairs. I did not learn his name right away (this would remain until one night when an act occurred that my poor ears would never forget), but when I did, he had an entirely different persona, he became an actual person to me, incapable of not being followed.
I became a bird-dog, obsessed with following him with my eyes, hand scribbling furiously in my notebook. I never got too close, because I had seen and heard his nasty temper, specifically with his girlfriend and I knew I didn’t want him turning on me. My status was perfect as it was, incognito with a notebook and a pen, peering ever so inconspicuously through the hedges.
* letter “e” is upside down creating sound of “uh”
Bird-dog
\’berd-‘dog\ v 1: to watch closely 2: to seek out : follow or detect *
As a child, one of my favorite movies of all time was Harriet the Spy. I loved the way she would just delve right into a “case,” make it her own and write her thoughts and feelings about it. I wanted to write like her, I wanted people to compliment me on my detective skills. I, in short wanted to be Harriet, (or Michelle Trachtenberg playing Harriet).
Next door lived a young man, he was probably my age now and he lived in the lower level apartment with his girlfriend while his mother, (the landlady) lived upstairs. I did not learn his name right away (this would remain until one night when an act occurred that my poor ears would never forget), but when I did, he had an entirely different persona, he became an actual person to me, incapable of not being followed.
I became a bird-dog, obsessed with following him with my eyes, hand scribbling furiously in my notebook. I never got too close, because I had seen and heard his nasty temper, specifically with his girlfriend and I knew I didn’t want him turning on me. My status was perfect as it was, incognito with a notebook and a pen, peering ever so inconspicuously through the hedges.
* letter “e” is upside down creating sound of “uh”
PERSPICUOUS
January 18th, 2010
Perspicuous
\per-‘spi-kye-wes\ adj: plain to the understanding especially because of clarity and precision of presentation *
My fear in life (in addition to all things that crawl), is that I may not articulate myself properly when trying to get my thoughts conveyed to anyone who is polite enough to listen. I often find myself in awkward situations, my thoughts never seeming to be interpreted the way I imagined. Throughout my life, I have been in situations that have required me to perfect the art of public speaking, (much to my dismay), or entailed me relaying my feelings to the other individual who was partaking of our conversation. I also often find myself asking if what I am saying makes sense; “did that make sense, because sometimes I don’t think I am articulating myself properly?” Let’s just say I get mixed reactions from that question.
Once such experience that really enabled me to get over my fear of public speaking was my involvement with the Funding Board during my time at La Salle. While a part of The African American Student League, I served on this board, an organization that allotted student associations money for various programs and/or conferences. In addition to serving on the board, I had become quite familiar with appearing before them during my earlier years with AASL pleading our financial cases. As a member of The Funding Board, I perhaps exuded the most sympathy toward the nervous wrecks who timidly set foot into 301.
During the course of the year, I was witness to some horrible presentations. There were groups who didn’t even know their own name, let alone why they needed that extra $1,000.00 for a program which they swore would “benefit the La Salle community.” I was playing a dual role; trying to balance my duty as a Funding Board member and also as an organizational representative who had sat where they had many times. I knew that because I was partial to presentation and an advocate for words, the presentation must be well-formatted, with good intention and well dare I say it, articulate?
One afternoon, after hearing a myriad of horrible presentations, a girl and two young men entered the conference room. I had seen her around the Communication building, heard of her older brother’s reputation within our esteemed program, and knew that whatever she was going to say would be well-done. Their appearance in front of the board was nothing short of confident and extremely perspicuous. I knew as soon as she opened her mouth, she was going to get my vote, just for making me listen to them. As I headed to my afternoon class, (in which I had an oral presentation), I thought to myself, would it be considered plagiarism if I took a page out of her book?
*letter “e” is upside down, producing sound of “uh”
Perspicuous
\per-‘spi-kye-wes\ adj: plain to the understanding especially because of clarity and precision of presentation *
My fear in life (in addition to all things that crawl), is that I may not articulate myself properly when trying to get my thoughts conveyed to anyone who is polite enough to listen. I often find myself in awkward situations, my thoughts never seeming to be interpreted the way I imagined. Throughout my life, I have been in situations that have required me to perfect the art of public speaking, (much to my dismay), or entailed me relaying my feelings to the other individual who was partaking of our conversation. I also often find myself asking if what I am saying makes sense; “did that make sense, because sometimes I don’t think I am articulating myself properly?” Let’s just say I get mixed reactions from that question.
Once such experience that really enabled me to get over my fear of public speaking was my involvement with the Funding Board during my time at La Salle. While a part of The African American Student League, I served on this board, an organization that allotted student associations money for various programs and/or conferences. In addition to serving on the board, I had become quite familiar with appearing before them during my earlier years with AASL pleading our financial cases. As a member of The Funding Board, I perhaps exuded the most sympathy toward the nervous wrecks who timidly set foot into 301.
During the course of the year, I was witness to some horrible presentations. There were groups who didn’t even know their own name, let alone why they needed that extra $1,000.00 for a program which they swore would “benefit the La Salle community.” I was playing a dual role; trying to balance my duty as a Funding Board member and also as an organizational representative who had sat where they had many times. I knew that because I was partial to presentation and an advocate for words, the presentation must be well-formatted, with good intention and well dare I say it, articulate?
One afternoon, after hearing a myriad of horrible presentations, a girl and two young men entered the conference room. I had seen her around the Communication building, heard of her older brother’s reputation within our esteemed program, and knew that whatever she was going to say would be well-done. Their appearance in front of the board was nothing short of confident and extremely perspicuous. I knew as soon as she opened her mouth, she was going to get my vote, just for making me listen to them. As I headed to my afternoon class, (in which I had an oral presentation), I thought to myself, would it be considered plagiarism if I took a page out of her book?
*letter “e” is upside down, producing sound of “uh”
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
True Emotional Artwork in Amy Bloom’s Away
True Emotional Artwork in Amy Bloom’s Away
Losing something often generates many different emotions; frustration at perhaps never finding it again, confusion as to what may have happened to it, sadness from the realization that it may never be recovered. Losing something, (depending on the size and magnitude of it) can make an individual’s life all the more difficult. However, losing someone is entirely different through various circumstances, from which some people never recover yet from which some people discover new attributes about themselves they never knew they possessed, perseverance, hope, strength and a renewed sense of faith crucial to understanding the situation in which they currently find themselves.
In Amy Bloom’s Away, the character, Lillian Leyb is on a major journey. At first it is clear to the reader that Lillian has made the voyage to New York City from Russia after the horrific massacre of her family and half her village. She is determined to start a new life in a city full of promise, with “streets paved with gold.” As Lillian makes her way to her cousin, Frieda’s apartment on the Lower East Side, she is taken aback by all the sights and sounds of this vast and magical city. As she arrives, there is a woman sitting on the stoop across the street rocking back and forth while sobbing. Looking at Frieda with a quizzical expression on her face, Lillian is told that Mrs. Lipkin has been evicted, the lesson being “you don’t pay, you don’t stay,” (Bloom 8). Living with her cousin and several other roommates, including Judith, a woman who is also boarding at Frieda’s and who is often annoyed with Lillian, especially when she is woken up in the middle of the night by Lillian’s screams due to her vivid nightmares.
As her new life progresses in the big city, Lillian soon becomes the new flavor of the week of one of the wealthiest, most famous actors in town, Meyer Burstein. The affair turns into a serious relationship until Lillian is soon finding herself being swept away from Meyer’s father, Rueben, becoming his willing mistress. Lillian is subject to a completely different lifestyle than the one she has known in Russia and even in her cousin Frieda’s apartment, in which she no longer lives. There are lavish parties, the infamous, sultry club where Lillian is often seen sitting between Rueben Burstein, Meyer and their family friend, Yaakov Shimmelman, (an older man, friend of Rueben who tried to kill himself after losing his wife and child) who becomes a mentor and dear friend of Lillian’s.
Lillian still grapples with the tremendous loss of her family, including her young daughter, Sophie, which is brought to life every night through her nightmares. However, when Lillian’s cousin, Raisele arrives with alarming news that Sophie may be alive, Lillian is filled with a new hope and is determined to find her child.
Lillian sets out on a journey north, determined to eventually reach Russia and find her long-lost daughter; to reclaim her as her own. Throughout her journey, new characters are introduced to Lillian and to the reader, making their own indelible impression on both. Gumdrop, a prostitute that Lillian meets in Seattle who teaches Lillian a life lesson of her own, Mary and Martha Hornsmith, two Christian women who Lillian meets on a steamship bound for Alaska, who share their faith with her even though they do not believe in the same one, Torbjorn Jensen and Oyvind, the father and son who help Lillian prepare for her arduous journey across the Yukon. These characters are presented to Lillian to sustain her, to encourage her even though they may not know her entire life story. They are her pillars of strength, hope and faith.
There are three primary characters in addition to Lillian that stand out to this author and whose relationships with Lillian are the epitome of friendship, kindness and love. Yaakov Shimmelman, the older man, the friend of Rueben Burstein, becomes a mentor to Lillian. He coaches her and prepares her for her journey, all the while being sad to see her go. Their relationship is one Lillian will carry with her through her entire journey.
Another character that definitely made an impression is that of Arthur Gilpin. Arthur is a man who has lost his wife and with that, all meaning of life. It is not until Lillian arrives, yearning to continue on her adventure, that Arthur regains his ability to love life once again. He becomes Lillian’s protector and gets her a job at the local prison; his reasoning being that the weather is too dangerous to make the trip, however it is clear that Arthur is also very lonely and this is his chance to finally have human interaction that possibly means something. Throughout her stay at the prison, Lillian is drawn to Arthur and they develop a kind and loving relationship that enables both of them to continue with their lives and their mission of finding happiness. As Lillian is finally getting ready to depart, Arthur’s new wife, Lorena, says to the conductor, “This is our daughter,” and as she waves goodbye to Lillian, she says, “You kiss little Sophie for us,” (Bloom 183). This is perhaps the most moving part in Bloom’s entire piece, illustrating that even though Lillian is searching for a member of her real family, she has established roots with a surrogate one.
The third individual in this novel that really strikes a chord with this author is John Bishop. Initially, he seems rough and abrasive, living in a shack all by himself, relegated to solitude due to a violent act he committed. John teaches Lillian not only love but the ability to rely on other people, as it is difficult for Lillian to do, traveling alone for such a long period of time. John and Lillian develop a romantic yet short-lived relationship however, their connection conveys the power of true love to the audience.
Just as the readers think that Lillian is going to come full circle once she arrives back in Russia, they are surprised by the twists and turns that Amy Bloom reveals to them and it is more than fitting that the title is what it is; a clear representation of a journey that will take Lillian toward a new life where opportunity is apparent through every window.
Losing something often generates many different emotions; frustration at perhaps never finding it again, confusion as to what may have happened to it, sadness from the realization that it may never be recovered. Losing something, (depending on the size and magnitude of it) can make an individual’s life all the more difficult. However, losing someone is entirely different through various circumstances, from which some people never recover yet from which some people discover new attributes about themselves they never knew they possessed, perseverance, hope, strength and a renewed sense of faith crucial to understanding the situation in which they currently find themselves.
In Amy Bloom’s Away, the character, Lillian Leyb is on a major journey. At first it is clear to the reader that Lillian has made the voyage to New York City from Russia after the horrific massacre of her family and half her village. She is determined to start a new life in a city full of promise, with “streets paved with gold.” As Lillian makes her way to her cousin, Frieda’s apartment on the Lower East Side, she is taken aback by all the sights and sounds of this vast and magical city. As she arrives, there is a woman sitting on the stoop across the street rocking back and forth while sobbing. Looking at Frieda with a quizzical expression on her face, Lillian is told that Mrs. Lipkin has been evicted, the lesson being “you don’t pay, you don’t stay,” (Bloom 8). Living with her cousin and several other roommates, including Judith, a woman who is also boarding at Frieda’s and who is often annoyed with Lillian, especially when she is woken up in the middle of the night by Lillian’s screams due to her vivid nightmares.
As her new life progresses in the big city, Lillian soon becomes the new flavor of the week of one of the wealthiest, most famous actors in town, Meyer Burstein. The affair turns into a serious relationship until Lillian is soon finding herself being swept away from Meyer’s father, Rueben, becoming his willing mistress. Lillian is subject to a completely different lifestyle than the one she has known in Russia and even in her cousin Frieda’s apartment, in which she no longer lives. There are lavish parties, the infamous, sultry club where Lillian is often seen sitting between Rueben Burstein, Meyer and their family friend, Yaakov Shimmelman, (an older man, friend of Rueben who tried to kill himself after losing his wife and child) who becomes a mentor and dear friend of Lillian’s.
Lillian still grapples with the tremendous loss of her family, including her young daughter, Sophie, which is brought to life every night through her nightmares. However, when Lillian’s cousin, Raisele arrives with alarming news that Sophie may be alive, Lillian is filled with a new hope and is determined to find her child.
Lillian sets out on a journey north, determined to eventually reach Russia and find her long-lost daughter; to reclaim her as her own. Throughout her journey, new characters are introduced to Lillian and to the reader, making their own indelible impression on both. Gumdrop, a prostitute that Lillian meets in Seattle who teaches Lillian a life lesson of her own, Mary and Martha Hornsmith, two Christian women who Lillian meets on a steamship bound for Alaska, who share their faith with her even though they do not believe in the same one, Torbjorn Jensen and Oyvind, the father and son who help Lillian prepare for her arduous journey across the Yukon. These characters are presented to Lillian to sustain her, to encourage her even though they may not know her entire life story. They are her pillars of strength, hope and faith.
There are three primary characters in addition to Lillian that stand out to this author and whose relationships with Lillian are the epitome of friendship, kindness and love. Yaakov Shimmelman, the older man, the friend of Rueben Burstein, becomes a mentor to Lillian. He coaches her and prepares her for her journey, all the while being sad to see her go. Their relationship is one Lillian will carry with her through her entire journey.
Another character that definitely made an impression is that of Arthur Gilpin. Arthur is a man who has lost his wife and with that, all meaning of life. It is not until Lillian arrives, yearning to continue on her adventure, that Arthur regains his ability to love life once again. He becomes Lillian’s protector and gets her a job at the local prison; his reasoning being that the weather is too dangerous to make the trip, however it is clear that Arthur is also very lonely and this is his chance to finally have human interaction that possibly means something. Throughout her stay at the prison, Lillian is drawn to Arthur and they develop a kind and loving relationship that enables both of them to continue with their lives and their mission of finding happiness. As Lillian is finally getting ready to depart, Arthur’s new wife, Lorena, says to the conductor, “This is our daughter,” and as she waves goodbye to Lillian, she says, “You kiss little Sophie for us,” (Bloom 183). This is perhaps the most moving part in Bloom’s entire piece, illustrating that even though Lillian is searching for a member of her real family, she has established roots with a surrogate one.
The third individual in this novel that really strikes a chord with this author is John Bishop. Initially, he seems rough and abrasive, living in a shack all by himself, relegated to solitude due to a violent act he committed. John teaches Lillian not only love but the ability to rely on other people, as it is difficult for Lillian to do, traveling alone for such a long period of time. John and Lillian develop a romantic yet short-lived relationship however, their connection conveys the power of true love to the audience.
Just as the readers think that Lillian is going to come full circle once she arrives back in Russia, they are surprised by the twists and turns that Amy Bloom reveals to them and it is more than fitting that the title is what it is; a clear representation of a journey that will take Lillian toward a new life where opportunity is apparent through every window.
Monday, January 18, 2010
CONVIVIAL
January 17th, 2010
Convivial
\ken-‘viv-yel\ adj : relating to, occupied with, or fond of feasting, drinking, and good company. *
There are many times in a person’s life when the environment is electrified with its happiness and convivial celebration of festivities; graduation, gathering with family for the holidays, winning a championship game, or just a simple get-together of one’s closest friends. The best situation, however that clearly illustrates the word “convivial,” is a wedding, an atmosphere that creates a genuinely happy and congratulatory mood, one that definitely incorporates “feasting, drinking and good company.”
Weddings are usually a joyous occasion (unless and every family has one, Uncle Bob drinks too much and starts groping one of the bridesmaids), where family and friends can get together to celebrate in a convivial atmosphere, the union of two people they love. Guests delight in the delicious appetizers during cocktail hour and the interesting selection of chicken or fish for their entrée, with a glass of either white or red wine to accompany the appropriate meal. Dessert is often the most anticipated part of the evening, the cutting of the cake symbolic of the partnership that has been solidified and representative of all the couple can overcome together, until the groom roughly shoves cake in his bride’s face.
*letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Convivial
\ken-‘viv-yel\ adj : relating to, occupied with, or fond of feasting, drinking, and good company. *
There are many times in a person’s life when the environment is electrified with its happiness and convivial celebration of festivities; graduation, gathering with family for the holidays, winning a championship game, or just a simple get-together of one’s closest friends. The best situation, however that clearly illustrates the word “convivial,” is a wedding, an atmosphere that creates a genuinely happy and congratulatory mood, one that definitely incorporates “feasting, drinking and good company.”
Weddings are usually a joyous occasion (unless and every family has one, Uncle Bob drinks too much and starts groping one of the bridesmaids), where family and friends can get together to celebrate in a convivial atmosphere, the union of two people they love. Guests delight in the delicious appetizers during cocktail hour and the interesting selection of chicken or fish for their entrée, with a glass of either white or red wine to accompany the appropriate meal. Dessert is often the most anticipated part of the evening, the cutting of the cake symbolic of the partnership that has been solidified and representative of all the couple can overcome together, until the groom roughly shoves cake in his bride’s face.
*letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
WHELM
January 16th, 2010
\’welm\ v *1: to cover or engulf completely with usually disastrous effect 2: to overwhelm 3: to pass or go over something so as to bury or submerge it
During my many nights while watching television, alone, eating my “tv dinners”, I often see commercials for depression. This affliction affects many individuals, especially today, when certainty is definitely not guaranteed. The word, “whelm,” has many meanings that usually have a negative connotation. Depression can easily be described by all three definitions, however the one that really sticks out to this writer is “to pass or go over something so as to bury or submerge it.”
Everyone suffers from depression in a different way, but it could be said that a common characteristic is to feel as though one is invisible; that they do not feel as though they are noticed, fading into the proverbial woodwork. It could be said that people with depression feel trapped. When an attack happens, it is like they are being buried alive, to lost in their feelings to be able to shout for help. Depression can manifest itself in various ways and if bad enough, can have catastrophic results. The families of people with depression can also feel despair and hopelessness; with each crucial tick of the clock, the person they love is getting more and more lost. The image that comes to mind when thinking about depression is getting taken under by a gigantic wave, the possibility for air being reduced minute by minute that eventually, the light is gone and all hope is gone.
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, please go to www.spsfv.org or call Suicide Prevention Services at 1-630-482-9696.
\’welm\ v *1: to cover or engulf completely with usually disastrous effect 2: to overwhelm 3: to pass or go over something so as to bury or submerge it
During my many nights while watching television, alone, eating my “tv dinners”, I often see commercials for depression. This affliction affects many individuals, especially today, when certainty is definitely not guaranteed. The word, “whelm,” has many meanings that usually have a negative connotation. Depression can easily be described by all three definitions, however the one that really sticks out to this writer is “to pass or go over something so as to bury or submerge it.”
Everyone suffers from depression in a different way, but it could be said that a common characteristic is to feel as though one is invisible; that they do not feel as though they are noticed, fading into the proverbial woodwork. It could be said that people with depression feel trapped. When an attack happens, it is like they are being buried alive, to lost in their feelings to be able to shout for help. Depression can manifest itself in various ways and if bad enough, can have catastrophic results. The families of people with depression can also feel despair and hopelessness; with each crucial tick of the clock, the person they love is getting more and more lost. The image that comes to mind when thinking about depression is getting taken under by a gigantic wave, the possibility for air being reduced minute by minute that eventually, the light is gone and all hope is gone.
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, please go to www.spsfv.org or call Suicide Prevention Services at 1-630-482-9696.
Friday, January 15, 2010
FERVID
January 15, 2010
Fervid
\’fer-ved\ adj 1: very hot : burning 2: marked by often extreme intensity of feeling *
If someone were to ask me what is one of my favorite things to do, the answer would be without a doubt, to give back, to serve. I have always been a rash thinker, getting excited quickly when realizing that ever-familiar feeling of a new idea making my brain pulsate. This fervid feeling really started and cemented itself in college when serving with The African American Student League; specifically after arranging a community service event or giving a speech that on a topic I was passionate about.
College ended, as all things do, yet my compulsion to help people stayed with me; I just couldn’t shake the feeling that to rally around a cause whether visiting patients at the Calcutta House, playing air hockey with kids at the Ronald McDonald House, or reading to little children at our school’s nursery school, the idea of community service was no longer just an idea, it was a need.
Recently, the poor nation of Haiti has suffered a tragic natural disaster that has rocked the island and left tens of thousands people dead and even more homeless and in desperate need of aid. When learning of this catastrophe, I knew that something had to be done; I was enveloped by this tremendous urge to help and to enable others to aid in the effort as well. According to Page-A-Day Calendar issued by Workman Publishing, fervid and fervent are very similar and go hand in hand; fervid being a “warm emotion expressed in a spontaneous manner,” while fervent illustrates, “a kind of emotional warmth that is steady and sincere.” The emotion that causes my heart to swell when I know that a simple act may help one person is powerful and once this simple act is complete, it compels my heart to continue to join with others to facilitate kindness yet again.
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
Fervid
\’fer-ved\ adj 1: very hot : burning 2: marked by often extreme intensity of feeling *
If someone were to ask me what is one of my favorite things to do, the answer would be without a doubt, to give back, to serve. I have always been a rash thinker, getting excited quickly when realizing that ever-familiar feeling of a new idea making my brain pulsate. This fervid feeling really started and cemented itself in college when serving with The African American Student League; specifically after arranging a community service event or giving a speech that on a topic I was passionate about.
College ended, as all things do, yet my compulsion to help people stayed with me; I just couldn’t shake the feeling that to rally around a cause whether visiting patients at the Calcutta House, playing air hockey with kids at the Ronald McDonald House, or reading to little children at our school’s nursery school, the idea of community service was no longer just an idea, it was a need.
Recently, the poor nation of Haiti has suffered a tragic natural disaster that has rocked the island and left tens of thousands people dead and even more homeless and in desperate need of aid. When learning of this catastrophe, I knew that something had to be done; I was enveloped by this tremendous urge to help and to enable others to aid in the effort as well. According to Page-A-Day Calendar issued by Workman Publishing, fervid and fervent are very similar and go hand in hand; fervid being a “warm emotion expressed in a spontaneous manner,” while fervent illustrates, “a kind of emotional warmth that is steady and sincere.” The emotion that causes my heart to swell when I know that a simple act may help one person is powerful and once this simple act is complete, it compels my heart to continue to join with others to facilitate kindness yet again.
* letter “e” is upside down producing sound of “uh”
QUAGGY
January 14th, 2010
Quaggy
\’kwa-ge\ adj 1:marshy 2: flabby
Searching for a job has been an all too interesting experience. I have gotten myself set in my ways when it comes to job hunting. Whip out the index cards, pen, jumpdrive and head to local library to sit there for an hour sending out loads of resumes wondering if any one of what seems like millions of potential employers will get back to me. This routine, while it may not seem that intense to others, is just that for me, a routine. It enables me to sustain the waning energy, reclaim the floundering motivation, and to suppress the overwhelming frustration. It provides structure, creating a strong fortress whose walls are not crumbling, whose sturdy foundation will allow me to create one of my own, so that when I step outside into the unknown brush ready (or not) to face the wild, the first quaggy step I take will not send me running back inside the stalwart unrealistic universe I have long since established.
Quaggy
\’kwa-ge\ adj 1:marshy 2: flabby
Searching for a job has been an all too interesting experience. I have gotten myself set in my ways when it comes to job hunting. Whip out the index cards, pen, jumpdrive and head to local library to sit there for an hour sending out loads of resumes wondering if any one of what seems like millions of potential employers will get back to me. This routine, while it may not seem that intense to others, is just that for me, a routine. It enables me to sustain the waning energy, reclaim the floundering motivation, and to suppress the overwhelming frustration. It provides structure, creating a strong fortress whose walls are not crumbling, whose sturdy foundation will allow me to create one of my own, so that when I step outside into the unknown brush ready (or not) to face the wild, the first quaggy step I take will not send me running back inside the stalwart unrealistic universe I have long since established.
ADVERTENT
January 13th, 2010
Advertent
\ad-‘ver-tent\ adj : giving attention : heedful *
There are many instances in one’s life that demands that he or she be advertent; trying to pass a driving test, paying attention in math class in order to pass the exam successfully, playing music at a suitable level after hours and not running the hot water while roommate is in shower. These examples are minor yet they are still fitting lessons to be applied to much bigger situations, such as perfecting common decency and respect, treating people as they want to be treated; the said golden rule (which is a daily reminder to me via my best friend’s text message signature).
Friendship to some people could be considered an adventure; one that requires work and patience. To others, the ability to maintain friendships is not often classified as a work in progress, instead it is a minute staple in their lives, incapable of being assigned the importance that an individual heedful about his or her relationships would be able to dispense.
Despite what stage a relationship has reached, participants should pay attention to how they incorporate the practice of being mindful to what the other partners in that relationship feel and how rules (there are always rules) should be applied to both or various contributors to said relationship. Being advertent does not include obsessing, unnecessarily stressing about things no longer under that person’s control or apologizing incessantly; these actions only result in painful migraines. Being advertent should be a simple act all its own, much simpler than preserving a relationship itself. The shelf lives of relationships would be much longer if thoughtfulness became a more prevalent ingredient in preserving any type of connection.
* letter “e” both regular and superscript is upside down producing sound of “uh”.
Advertent
\ad-‘ver-tent\ adj : giving attention : heedful *
There are many instances in one’s life that demands that he or she be advertent; trying to pass a driving test, paying attention in math class in order to pass the exam successfully, playing music at a suitable level after hours and not running the hot water while roommate is in shower. These examples are minor yet they are still fitting lessons to be applied to much bigger situations, such as perfecting common decency and respect, treating people as they want to be treated; the said golden rule (which is a daily reminder to me via my best friend’s text message signature).
Friendship to some people could be considered an adventure; one that requires work and patience. To others, the ability to maintain friendships is not often classified as a work in progress, instead it is a minute staple in their lives, incapable of being assigned the importance that an individual heedful about his or her relationships would be able to dispense.
Despite what stage a relationship has reached, participants should pay attention to how they incorporate the practice of being mindful to what the other partners in that relationship feel and how rules (there are always rules) should be applied to both or various contributors to said relationship. Being advertent does not include obsessing, unnecessarily stressing about things no longer under that person’s control or apologizing incessantly; these actions only result in painful migraines. Being advertent should be a simple act all its own, much simpler than preserving a relationship itself. The shelf lives of relationships would be much longer if thoughtfulness became a more prevalent ingredient in preserving any type of connection.
* letter “e” both regular and superscript is upside down producing sound of “uh”.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
YASHMAK
January 12, 2010
\’yash-‘mak\ n : a veil worn by Muslim women that is wrapped around the upper and lower parts of the face so that only the eyes remain exposed to public view.
It has often been said that our eyes are the windows to our soul, when we are angry or happy, laughing or crying, our eyes can usually get our emotions and thoughts across to others before we even know what is happening. We think our emotions are being kept in check but in actuality our eyes have given us away.
Many Muslim women are required, by law to wear a yashmak, or a veil that covers the upper and lower parts of their face. Muslim women have been instructed by a hierarchal society to remain private yet their eyes are telling a story to every individual they encounter, every news journalist vying for an inside scoop to the truth that is laying hidden, every group that arrives as part of a relief effort, every woman at home in America that is allowed to show her skin and body yet who keeps her feelings carefully hidden behind an all too common, neutral stare.
\’yash-‘mak\ n : a veil worn by Muslim women that is wrapped around the upper and lower parts of the face so that only the eyes remain exposed to public view.
It has often been said that our eyes are the windows to our soul, when we are angry or happy, laughing or crying, our eyes can usually get our emotions and thoughts across to others before we even know what is happening. We think our emotions are being kept in check but in actuality our eyes have given us away.
Many Muslim women are required, by law to wear a yashmak, or a veil that covers the upper and lower parts of their face. Muslim women have been instructed by a hierarchal society to remain private yet their eyes are telling a story to every individual they encounter, every news journalist vying for an inside scoop to the truth that is laying hidden, every group that arrives as part of a relief effort, every woman at home in America that is allowed to show her skin and body yet who keeps her feelings carefully hidden behind an all too common, neutral stare.
KINESICS
January 11, 2010
Kinesics
\ke- ‘ne-siks\ n: a systematic study of the relationship between nonlinguistic body motions (as blushes, shrugs, or eye movement) and communication*
It could be argued that teenagers have perfected the art form of rolling one’s eyes, usually followed by a non committal shrug and if parents are lucky a grunt. These nonverbal cues to one’s emotions (combined with any verbal diatribe that might be coming because Johnny’s dad wouldn’t let him borrow the car), are described as kinesics. I know for certain as an adolescent and even now in my early adulthood, I have relied on more than one non-verbal clue; my favorite being the raised right eyebrow which has been a humorous staple in my household for years.
My mother always says anyone can tell I am Italian because as I speak, my hands never stop moving. When preparing to go on a travel study in Italy, my non-verbal communication class studied different examples of kinesics and how they affected different cultures, by the end of the course, we knew what gestures would be welcome in Italy and which would not. I observed many different usages of nonverbal communication while in Italy; a simply flick of the wrist while crossing the street was thanks enough and a classmate putting up two fingers when her waiter clearly has three up with a confused look on his face, accompanied by “Ahh, Ahh,” as soon as he understands; now that’s kinesics at its finest!
The English language is tricky as it is, without the subtleties and nuances thrown in just for good measure. On the other hand, the relationship that is forged between non-verbal and verbal styles of communication is valuable, specifically in other countries that do not rely on the spoken word as frequently. Non-verbal communication has become more widely accepted and even more widely used.
*first letter “e” is upside down creating sound of “uh”
Kinesics
\ke- ‘ne-siks\ n: a systematic study of the relationship between nonlinguistic body motions (as blushes, shrugs, or eye movement) and communication*
It could be argued that teenagers have perfected the art form of rolling one’s eyes, usually followed by a non committal shrug and if parents are lucky a grunt. These nonverbal cues to one’s emotions (combined with any verbal diatribe that might be coming because Johnny’s dad wouldn’t let him borrow the car), are described as kinesics. I know for certain as an adolescent and even now in my early adulthood, I have relied on more than one non-verbal clue; my favorite being the raised right eyebrow which has been a humorous staple in my household for years.
My mother always says anyone can tell I am Italian because as I speak, my hands never stop moving. When preparing to go on a travel study in Italy, my non-verbal communication class studied different examples of kinesics and how they affected different cultures, by the end of the course, we knew what gestures would be welcome in Italy and which would not. I observed many different usages of nonverbal communication while in Italy; a simply flick of the wrist while crossing the street was thanks enough and a classmate putting up two fingers when her waiter clearly has three up with a confused look on his face, accompanied by “Ahh, Ahh,” as soon as he understands; now that’s kinesics at its finest!
The English language is tricky as it is, without the subtleties and nuances thrown in just for good measure. On the other hand, the relationship that is forged between non-verbal and verbal styles of communication is valuable, specifically in other countries that do not rely on the spoken word as frequently. Non-verbal communication has become more widely accepted and even more widely used.
*first letter “e” is upside down creating sound of “uh”
Sunday, January 10, 2010
CONFABULATE
January 10th, 2010
Confabulate
\ken-‘fa-bye-‘lat\ v 1.: to talk informally : chat *2: to hold a discussion : confer 3: to fill in gaps in memory by fabrication *
During college, if you were to ask any student if they have had a favorite or even just memorable professor, it’s safe to say that almost all of them will say yes and then launch into a lecture about what it was that made him or her in such awe of this glorified educator. My senior year of college, I was privy to one such professor that without a doubt made our class chuckle at one point or another during the course of the class.
One of the first days of the semester, after the syllabus had been handed out and reviewed (enough to make anyone sorry they could read), my professor broached the subject of papers and the proper etiquette in which they should be handed to her. She specified that all papers should be stapled and not paper-clipped because paper-clips were “horny little bastards,” and like to get stuck together and it was a pain in the ass to undo them. The whole class began to giggle after looking at one another just to make sure we had heard her correctly. “Horny Little Bastards”? Did I mention she had prefaced this by saying that this could in fact be used as useless cocktail party trivia. Imagine confabulating about that!
* letter “e” is upside down creating sound of “uh”
Confabulate
\ken-‘fa-bye-‘lat\ v 1.: to talk informally : chat *2: to hold a discussion : confer 3: to fill in gaps in memory by fabrication *
During college, if you were to ask any student if they have had a favorite or even just memorable professor, it’s safe to say that almost all of them will say yes and then launch into a lecture about what it was that made him or her in such awe of this glorified educator. My senior year of college, I was privy to one such professor that without a doubt made our class chuckle at one point or another during the course of the class.
One of the first days of the semester, after the syllabus had been handed out and reviewed (enough to make anyone sorry they could read), my professor broached the subject of papers and the proper etiquette in which they should be handed to her. She specified that all papers should be stapled and not paper-clipped because paper-clips were “horny little bastards,” and like to get stuck together and it was a pain in the ass to undo them. The whole class began to giggle after looking at one another just to make sure we had heard her correctly. “Horny Little Bastards”? Did I mention she had prefaced this by saying that this could in fact be used as useless cocktail party trivia. Imagine confabulating about that!
* letter “e” is upside down creating sound of “uh”
FEBRILE
January 9th, 2010
Febrile
\’fe-‘bril\ adj : marked or caused by fever : feverish
As a child, I remember suffering from fevers many times. My mom has often told me that strep throat and ear infections repeatedly afflicted me and those illnesses were more often than not accompanied by a fever. The last fever associated with a sickness was two years ago when I fell victim to the common flu; this too passed, although at the time, I didn’t think that it could get any worse. These occasions when I have fallen ill, too achy to move and so sick that even the thought of showering and brushing my teeth made me gag, I, ever so rightly characterized the meaning of fever as negative; as my mother so often put it, “a clear indication of an infection.”
However, having a febrile state of mind can definitely allude to something entirely different than an illness. As my fingers glide effortlessly across the keyboard, I am struck by an all too familiar ache; a feeling that I know all too well as the yearning to get my feelings on paper for all to read. As the thoughts that skate on the edges of my mental periphery come to life, the temporary fever subsides until it is yet again time to medicate the roaring in my ears as new ideas are born.
Febrile
\’fe-‘bril\ adj : marked or caused by fever : feverish
As a child, I remember suffering from fevers many times. My mom has often told me that strep throat and ear infections repeatedly afflicted me and those illnesses were more often than not accompanied by a fever. The last fever associated with a sickness was two years ago when I fell victim to the common flu; this too passed, although at the time, I didn’t think that it could get any worse. These occasions when I have fallen ill, too achy to move and so sick that even the thought of showering and brushing my teeth made me gag, I, ever so rightly characterized the meaning of fever as negative; as my mother so often put it, “a clear indication of an infection.”
However, having a febrile state of mind can definitely allude to something entirely different than an illness. As my fingers glide effortlessly across the keyboard, I am struck by an all too familiar ache; a feeling that I know all too well as the yearning to get my feelings on paper for all to read. As the thoughts that skate on the edges of my mental periphery come to life, the temporary fever subsides until it is yet again time to medicate the roaring in my ears as new ideas are born.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Truculent
January 8th, 2010
Truculent
\’tre-kye-lent\ adj *1: feeling or displaying ferocity 2: deadly or destructive 3: scathingly harsh 4: aggressively self-assertive *
One of the great elements of the word, “truculent” is that it is host to so many different nuances of meaning. The origin of the word, according to Page-A-Day Calendar from Workman Publishing, comes from the word “truculentus which is a form of the Latin adjective trux meaning ‘savage.’” This word and the sound it makes when it rolls off my tongue enables me to envision all the negative aspects of an individual, a personality, or circumstance. However, perhaps it is one of my favorite words because of the wide spectrum on which its numerous meanings are scattered.
Ok, yes, it could be argued that the original meaning is the only real meaning, but let’s be honest, why would we want to let a word that embodies such evil leave our mouths and make its indelible mark on people and society at large? Even though all the meanings of truculent are negative, some are less severe and therefore are easier with which to deal. The description of the word gives the harshest definition first, then slowly eases its way into the least offending explanation, “aggressively self-asserting.” People may argue that it should be against the (fictitious) word laws that a word be used to so accurately describe two different people or situations or policies; truculent being able to to describe a hateful man such as Saadam Hussein or a person who may be a bit pushy and obnoxious. Dare I say that the difference is clear here? How can one word be used to delineate two people on such opposite sides of the language gamut? Ahh, such is the beauty of the English language, a method of communication that can be such a precise representation of its people, hosting words that is in itself one but that which hordes multitudes of shades of gray.
* letter “e” is upside down giving sound of “uh”
Truculent
\’tre-kye-lent\ adj *1: feeling or displaying ferocity 2: deadly or destructive 3: scathingly harsh 4: aggressively self-assertive *
One of the great elements of the word, “truculent” is that it is host to so many different nuances of meaning. The origin of the word, according to Page-A-Day Calendar from Workman Publishing, comes from the word “truculentus which is a form of the Latin adjective trux meaning ‘savage.’” This word and the sound it makes when it rolls off my tongue enables me to envision all the negative aspects of an individual, a personality, or circumstance. However, perhaps it is one of my favorite words because of the wide spectrum on which its numerous meanings are scattered.
Ok, yes, it could be argued that the original meaning is the only real meaning, but let’s be honest, why would we want to let a word that embodies such evil leave our mouths and make its indelible mark on people and society at large? Even though all the meanings of truculent are negative, some are less severe and therefore are easier with which to deal. The description of the word gives the harshest definition first, then slowly eases its way into the least offending explanation, “aggressively self-asserting.” People may argue that it should be against the (fictitious) word laws that a word be used to so accurately describe two different people or situations or policies; truculent being able to to describe a hateful man such as Saadam Hussein or a person who may be a bit pushy and obnoxious. Dare I say that the difference is clear here? How can one word be used to delineate two people on such opposite sides of the language gamut? Ahh, such is the beauty of the English language, a method of communication that can be such a precise representation of its people, hosting words that is in itself one but that which hordes multitudes of shades of gray.
* letter “e” is upside down giving sound of “uh”
Passel
January 7th, 2010
Passel
\’pa-sel\ n: a large number or amount*
I am a firm believer in the phrase, “you learn something new every day.” Whether it is a life-altering piece of news like September 11th, 2001 or a simple factoid one shares with one’s friends such as a little piece of ginger cures (almost instantaneously) our monthly pains, learning something new is an accomplishment even if said piece of information may or may not be considered a monumental catalyst in changing one’s life. I am also a firm believer that when learning new things, not only does it enable us to keep growing mentally but this undemanding feat allows us to place ourselves among people or in circumstances that permit us to continue learning by not being afraid and claiming responsibility for not necessarily knowing everything.
This phrase, “you learn something new every day,” has been strongly implemented within my life through various mediums; friends, teachers, my boss, circumstance, photos and writing. Perhaps the most innocent channel through which I have been obtaining knowledge is via the new 365 word a day calendar that was given as a gift to me by my mother for Christmas. Not only is a new word along with its pronunciation presented to me every day, but as each day comes to a close, I fervently flip over the page to read the “Did You Know” section, authorizing my mind to receive this summary of facts and more importantly be willing to share it with those I know.
Today’s word, passel, means a large number or amount. In the sample sentence, the audience gets the basic meaning of the word, but as one flips over the sheet and reads my favorite section, the penny drops and one realizes simultaneously, “Wow, I didn’t know that and that makes sense, that’s where those words come from”. According to Page-A-Day Calendar by Workman Publishing, the word passel originally comes from the word parcel, the letter “r” being left out and the spelling morphing into a pronunciation that is possibly easier for the average reader. Passel is not the only word that has been altered by time and culture; several other examples including “cuss from curse, and bust from burst”. It’s likely that the modification of these words were a result of a steady change throughout time and a culture’s yearning to perhaps invoke a supplement to our language. So, in conclusion, gaining new passels of information is quite handy but it is also effective to contribute to the ever-evolving life of language and knowledge.
*letter “e” is upside down in pronunciation eliciting sound “uh”
Passel
\’pa-sel\ n: a large number or amount*
I am a firm believer in the phrase, “you learn something new every day.” Whether it is a life-altering piece of news like September 11th, 2001 or a simple factoid one shares with one’s friends such as a little piece of ginger cures (almost instantaneously) our monthly pains, learning something new is an accomplishment even if said piece of information may or may not be considered a monumental catalyst in changing one’s life. I am also a firm believer that when learning new things, not only does it enable us to keep growing mentally but this undemanding feat allows us to place ourselves among people or in circumstances that permit us to continue learning by not being afraid and claiming responsibility for not necessarily knowing everything.
This phrase, “you learn something new every day,” has been strongly implemented within my life through various mediums; friends, teachers, my boss, circumstance, photos and writing. Perhaps the most innocent channel through which I have been obtaining knowledge is via the new 365 word a day calendar that was given as a gift to me by my mother for Christmas. Not only is a new word along with its pronunciation presented to me every day, but as each day comes to a close, I fervently flip over the page to read the “Did You Know” section, authorizing my mind to receive this summary of facts and more importantly be willing to share it with those I know.
Today’s word, passel, means a large number or amount. In the sample sentence, the audience gets the basic meaning of the word, but as one flips over the sheet and reads my favorite section, the penny drops and one realizes simultaneously, “Wow, I didn’t know that and that makes sense, that’s where those words come from”. According to Page-A-Day Calendar by Workman Publishing, the word passel originally comes from the word parcel, the letter “r” being left out and the spelling morphing into a pronunciation that is possibly easier for the average reader. Passel is not the only word that has been altered by time and culture; several other examples including “cuss from curse, and bust from burst”. It’s likely that the modification of these words were a result of a steady change throughout time and a culture’s yearning to perhaps invoke a supplement to our language. So, in conclusion, gaining new passels of information is quite handy but it is also effective to contribute to the ever-evolving life of language and knowledge.
*letter “e” is upside down in pronunciation eliciting sound “uh”
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
FISSIPAROUS
January 6th, 2010
Fissiparous
\fi- ‘si-pe-res\ adj : tending to break up into parts : divisive*
Jane always woke up early and in a good mood. She was never the type of person who “woke up on the wrong side of the bed,” because she always recognized the positive aspect of life and tried to employ that attitude with whatever new endeavor she embarked upon or with whom she interacted. Today, though, was different. She was not her happy-go-lucky self. Jane decided that perhaps a good, substantial breakfast and a hot shower would do her some good and would liven her spirits. An hour later, showered, dressed, and well nourished, Jane was still Sour Susy and adding apathy to her list of emotions for the day, she meandered out the door to head to work.
The bus rumbled and Jane felt nauseous; perhaps that oatmeal she had ingested was old. What was usually a pleasant trip that allowed Jane to listen to her iPod instead of having to concentrate on driving, was a state of nausea and impatience this morning. Jane still did not exhibit confusion at what was going on inside her; the apathy and depressing mood were running a tight race, both convinced they were going to win and ruin Jane’s day completely.
As Jane dismounted the bus and walked the four blocks to work, she no longer took delight in the sun shining through the leaves or the kids walking to school, laughing at yet another corny joke their friend told them. Jane arrived at her building, showed the guard her pass without her usual warm smile and made her way to the elevator. Mercifully, Jane was the only passenger and welcomed the silence.
An hour later as Jane’s department entered the conference room for their meeting on a new design strategy, all Jane’s ideas were no longer swarming in her brain but had solidified and refused to verbally be brought to fruition. Her teammates and boss could not understand what had gotten into their usual go-getter. Jane was full of great ideas yesterday, what had happened? The team has lost their energy; the energy that is more often radiating from Jane. They cannot function. Their fissiparous inability to share their suggestions has disabled them from becoming as productive as they set out to be. Hopefully, tomorrow Jane will be a team player once more.
*the letter “e” in the pronunciation of the word is upside down and pronounced “uh”
Fissiparous
\fi- ‘si-pe-res\ adj : tending to break up into parts : divisive*
Jane always woke up early and in a good mood. She was never the type of person who “woke up on the wrong side of the bed,” because she always recognized the positive aspect of life and tried to employ that attitude with whatever new endeavor she embarked upon or with whom she interacted. Today, though, was different. She was not her happy-go-lucky self. Jane decided that perhaps a good, substantial breakfast and a hot shower would do her some good and would liven her spirits. An hour later, showered, dressed, and well nourished, Jane was still Sour Susy and adding apathy to her list of emotions for the day, she meandered out the door to head to work.
The bus rumbled and Jane felt nauseous; perhaps that oatmeal she had ingested was old. What was usually a pleasant trip that allowed Jane to listen to her iPod instead of having to concentrate on driving, was a state of nausea and impatience this morning. Jane still did not exhibit confusion at what was going on inside her; the apathy and depressing mood were running a tight race, both convinced they were going to win and ruin Jane’s day completely.
As Jane dismounted the bus and walked the four blocks to work, she no longer took delight in the sun shining through the leaves or the kids walking to school, laughing at yet another corny joke their friend told them. Jane arrived at her building, showed the guard her pass without her usual warm smile and made her way to the elevator. Mercifully, Jane was the only passenger and welcomed the silence.
An hour later as Jane’s department entered the conference room for their meeting on a new design strategy, all Jane’s ideas were no longer swarming in her brain but had solidified and refused to verbally be brought to fruition. Her teammates and boss could not understand what had gotten into their usual go-getter. Jane was full of great ideas yesterday, what had happened? The team has lost their energy; the energy that is more often radiating from Jane. They cannot function. Their fissiparous inability to share their suggestions has disabled them from becoming as productive as they set out to be. Hopefully, tomorrow Jane will be a team player once more.
*the letter “e” in the pronunciation of the word is upside down and pronounced “uh”
ALLEY-OOP
January 5, 2010
Alley-Oop
\a-le-yup\ n: A basketball play in which a player catches a pass above the basket and immediately dunks the ball.
I like the feeling of the texture of the raised bumps of a basketball on my fingertips, those bumps leaving a tingling sensation as the ball leaves my fingers and soars toward the basket; the net waiting to capture its long-lost love. But alas, the ball does not make it into the net; the next player is put in to hopefully undo the damage I have managed to create in my meager 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
I like round numbers. Today is the 5th of January 2010. We have 360 days left to go in this New Year. My mind works better with round numbers; for some strange reason, they give me hope, maybe it’s the clean look they have about them, or the possibility the figure “O” has; never-ending, never yielding, always allowing for error and the ability to rectify that error. For almost two years, my life has been anything but easy. It has been host to uncertainty, financial woes, failure to just go grocery shopping without comparing prices, and lack of material comforts due to fiscal priorities. There have been many ups and downs these past two years, not one of them resulting in an alley-oop.
I like the feeling of the keyboard keys click-clacking as my thoughts race to get on the paper and as I finish a piece and look over the completed product, I understand what it is about. It isn’t about always “dunking the ball,” in the area we want but the area we can; the areas we are most talented; racking up points while establishing a new goal simultaneously. And the crowd goes wild…!
Alley-Oop
\a-le-yup\ n: A basketball play in which a player catches a pass above the basket and immediately dunks the ball.
I like the feeling of the texture of the raised bumps of a basketball on my fingertips, those bumps leaving a tingling sensation as the ball leaves my fingers and soars toward the basket; the net waiting to capture its long-lost love. But alas, the ball does not make it into the net; the next player is put in to hopefully undo the damage I have managed to create in my meager 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
I like round numbers. Today is the 5th of January 2010. We have 360 days left to go in this New Year. My mind works better with round numbers; for some strange reason, they give me hope, maybe it’s the clean look they have about them, or the possibility the figure “O” has; never-ending, never yielding, always allowing for error and the ability to rectify that error. For almost two years, my life has been anything but easy. It has been host to uncertainty, financial woes, failure to just go grocery shopping without comparing prices, and lack of material comforts due to fiscal priorities. There have been many ups and downs these past two years, not one of them resulting in an alley-oop.
I like the feeling of the keyboard keys click-clacking as my thoughts race to get on the paper and as I finish a piece and look over the completed product, I understand what it is about. It isn’t about always “dunking the ball,” in the area we want but the area we can; the areas we are most talented; racking up points while establishing a new goal simultaneously. And the crowd goes wild…!
LANGUE
January 4th, 2010
Langue
\’lang\ n: language viewed abstractly as a system of forms and conventions used for communication in a community.
For what seems like centuries, the art of language has always been part of our everyday lives. From learning it in the classroom, whether it be our own, the Enigmatic English or another culture’s such as Sultry Spanish, Lavish Latin or Tantalizing Thai, language is a culture all its own with its unique nuances and its ability to baffle the brave student who decided to undertake the arduous task of conquering it.
Language is perhaps the mother of verbal exchanges; the umbrella under which people may or may not be able to interact and share opinions, beliefs and thoughts about current events, the latest fashion trends, the greatest foods and the trashiest television shows. However, a community that has formed an accepted way of speaking and understanding one another, I think is beautiful. Finding an equal balance of trying to establish and maintain relationships with individuals from another culture while preserving and protecting the langue inherent to each specific community is a task all on its own; a task with which even the most talented of orators may reach a full stop.
Langue
\’lang\ n: language viewed abstractly as a system of forms and conventions used for communication in a community.
For what seems like centuries, the art of language has always been part of our everyday lives. From learning it in the classroom, whether it be our own, the Enigmatic English or another culture’s such as Sultry Spanish, Lavish Latin or Tantalizing Thai, language is a culture all its own with its unique nuances and its ability to baffle the brave student who decided to undertake the arduous task of conquering it.
Language is perhaps the mother of verbal exchanges; the umbrella under which people may or may not be able to interact and share opinions, beliefs and thoughts about current events, the latest fashion trends, the greatest foods and the trashiest television shows. However, a community that has formed an accepted way of speaking and understanding one another, I think is beautiful. Finding an equal balance of trying to establish and maintain relationships with individuals from another culture while preserving and protecting the langue inherent to each specific community is a task all on its own; a task with which even the most talented of orators may reach a full stop.
ULTIMA
January 3rd, 2010
Ultima
N: the last syllable of a word.
It was twelve twenty-one,
And Kate thought she was done.
But Alas, it was not to be,
Even though her eyes were closing dangerously.
She had vowed to write a piece a day,
“A new adventure I have embarked upon,” she would say.
The word was Ultima, the last syllable of a word,
To give up now would be absurd.
She was so close,
If she did not finish, she would be totally morose.
“That’s it!” She exclaimed,
“I’ll write a poem, besides this is not for fame.”
The poem was finally complete,
It was no extraordinary feat.
She chanted to herself, “Way to go Katie!”
She relaxed, because finally she could go pee.
Ultima
N: the last syllable of a word.
It was twelve twenty-one,
And Kate thought she was done.
But Alas, it was not to be,
Even though her eyes were closing dangerously.
She had vowed to write a piece a day,
“A new adventure I have embarked upon,” she would say.
The word was Ultima, the last syllable of a word,
To give up now would be absurd.
She was so close,
If she did not finish, she would be totally morose.
“That’s it!” She exclaimed,
“I’ll write a poem, besides this is not for fame.”
The poem was finally complete,
It was no extraordinary feat.
She chanted to herself, “Way to go Katie!”
She relaxed, because finally she could go pee.
January 2nd, 2010
January 2nd, 2010
M.A.S.H.
\’mash\ n: an intense and usually passing infatuation; also: the object of infatuation
As children, we have a variety of many games that entertain us; keeping us preoccupied and increasing our brain activity as we sit in the doctor’s waiting room waiting impatiently; not because mom’s appointment is taking forever but because our opponent is taking his or her sweet time making his or her next move. Whether it be Battleship, Operation, Hungry Hungry Hippos or Guess Who?, we have been taught that to lose concentration focusing on something else than winning will cost us our next championship title.
For my friends and I, a great game that would fill up sheets and sheets of looseleaf, trying to decipher who our next love would be, was the game of M.A.S.H., those letters representing the location we would be fortunate or unfortunate enough to inhabit. However, the real object of this game was to figure out with whom we would end up with as a husband. In this game of M.A.S.H, we took the title as it was; an acronym that held our future and nothing more, certainly not a clear representation of what we were truly feeling.
My friends and I played endless games of M.A.S.H and I fervently hoped that the boy I was targeting, and the mash that projected onto him would inevitably come true so that instead of being the object of my infatuation, my crush and I would drive off in a Porsche with 2.5 kids to spend time in our summer mansion…
M.A.S.H.
\’mash\ n: an intense and usually passing infatuation; also: the object of infatuation
As children, we have a variety of many games that entertain us; keeping us preoccupied and increasing our brain activity as we sit in the doctor’s waiting room waiting impatiently; not because mom’s appointment is taking forever but because our opponent is taking his or her sweet time making his or her next move. Whether it be Battleship, Operation, Hungry Hungry Hippos or Guess Who?, we have been taught that to lose concentration focusing on something else than winning will cost us our next championship title.
For my friends and I, a great game that would fill up sheets and sheets of looseleaf, trying to decipher who our next love would be, was the game of M.A.S.H., those letters representing the location we would be fortunate or unfortunate enough to inhabit. However, the real object of this game was to figure out with whom we would end up with as a husband. In this game of M.A.S.H, we took the title as it was; an acronym that held our future and nothing more, certainly not a clear representation of what we were truly feeling.
My friends and I played endless games of M.A.S.H and I fervently hoped that the boy I was targeting, and the mash that projected onto him would inevitably come true so that instead of being the object of my infatuation, my crush and I would drive off in a Porsche with 2.5 kids to spend time in our summer mansion…
January 1st, 2010
January 1st, 2010
Syncretic
\sin-‘kre-tik\ adj: characterized or brought about by the combination of different forms of belief or practice.
We have often been taught that to possess our own thoughts and ways of bringing certain acts to fruition define not only us as individuals but as members of society, determined to earn our place in the world and to come across our niche. We are taught to respect each other’s lifestyles, opinions and beliefs; to question things that do not make sense to us or that make us feel a certain way whether it be disrespected, honored, confused, happy or sad. However, we are not frequently encouraged to incorporate different ideas into our daily lives to bring about change or to implement a new practice; something that could perhaps not only change our lives but those of others as well. Conceivably, if we were to embrace each new practice and combine those that we learn with those we hold dear in our own lives, maybe we could create a syncretic lifestyle; a way to live that promotes harmony, joy and laughter and the necessary tools to combat discord and chaos. We would discover and therefore employ a way to deal with the nasty and also delightful surprises life throws us; perchance, an alternate option to the current way we handle certain situations and how we view life in general. Hundreds of generations have found ways to merge various techniques to make a dilemma a little less daunting, heartache a little more bearable, tragic loss a little less painful. New medicinal treatments have been invented, new political policies have been executed, cultural barriers have been destroyed and relationships have been forged as a result of a coming together of men and women who have crossed the line into an unknown territory, wielding weapons of knowledge and knowing the end result will definitely help close the gap between dissimilar idealogies.
Syncretic
\sin-‘kre-tik\ adj: characterized or brought about by the combination of different forms of belief or practice.
We have often been taught that to possess our own thoughts and ways of bringing certain acts to fruition define not only us as individuals but as members of society, determined to earn our place in the world and to come across our niche. We are taught to respect each other’s lifestyles, opinions and beliefs; to question things that do not make sense to us or that make us feel a certain way whether it be disrespected, honored, confused, happy or sad. However, we are not frequently encouraged to incorporate different ideas into our daily lives to bring about change or to implement a new practice; something that could perhaps not only change our lives but those of others as well. Conceivably, if we were to embrace each new practice and combine those that we learn with those we hold dear in our own lives, maybe we could create a syncretic lifestyle; a way to live that promotes harmony, joy and laughter and the necessary tools to combat discord and chaos. We would discover and therefore employ a way to deal with the nasty and also delightful surprises life throws us; perchance, an alternate option to the current way we handle certain situations and how we view life in general. Hundreds of generations have found ways to merge various techniques to make a dilemma a little less daunting, heartache a little more bearable, tragic loss a little less painful. New medicinal treatments have been invented, new political policies have been executed, cultural barriers have been destroyed and relationships have been forged as a result of a coming together of men and women who have crossed the line into an unknown territory, wielding weapons of knowledge and knowing the end result will definitely help close the gap between dissimilar idealogies.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
