A few days ago, quite by accident, I found myself watching a movie that reignited memories of a play I had already delved into some time ago. As the familiar story unfolded on screen, I felt the urge to revisit and refine my previous thoughts. Out came the metaphorical polish for an old essay, and … Continue reading Alfie: The Charm, the Consequences, and the Loneliness Beneath the Swagger
Category: philosophy
Lewis’ Surprised by Joy
Recently, I had the chance to watch Shadowlands, the deeply moving film starring Anthony Hopkins, among others. From the outset, I knew I wouldn’t make it through without a lump forming in my throat or my eyes welling up. And I was right - especially given the fragile state of my emotions lately. The film, after … Continue reading Lewis’ Surprised by Joy
The Spectacle of Mr. Polly: A Tragicomedy of the Mildly Absurd – and then some.
Yesterday, I found myself deeply overwhelmed, though I kept it hidden as best I could as I accompanied my dear dad to the hospital for his first round of chemotherapy. He turns ninety this Sunday, a milestone I cherish even as we navigate this difficult journey. Having helped him care for his late partner, and … Continue reading The Spectacle of Mr. Polly: A Tragicomedy of the Mildly Absurd – and then some.
Snoozing Through the Ages: Rip Van Winkle
Just the name of this protagonist activates my chuckle muscle - imagine introducing yourself with this moniker to a purveyor of sea-foods! Washington Irving’s Rip Van Winkle is a tale that has intrigued readers for over two centuries, not just because of its fantastical plot, but because it taps into the universal desire to avoid … Continue reading Snoozing Through the Ages: Rip Van Winkle
Candide, or Optimism: The Optimist’s Survival Guide to the Worst Holiday Ever
In Voltaire’s Candide, or Optimism, we embark on a rollicking rollercoaster of misfortunes that would make even Murphy of Murphy's Law feel optimistic. It's a satirical romp through a world so fraught with disasters that even Job from the Bible would be inclined to offer a sympathetic shrug. Voltaire takes us through the whimsical and often … Continue reading Candide, or Optimism: The Optimist’s Survival Guide to the Worst Holiday Ever
