Pronouns are okay, within reason. But... Ayn Rand's Anthem is a dystopian novella where collectivism has run so wild that individual pronouns are strictly prohibited, everyone shares the same terrible haircut, and 'I' is a word so taboo that uttering it could get you a one-way ticket to the nearest re-education center. The novella is a compelling, … Continue reading Collectivism: Where ‘All for One’ Meets ‘None for You’ – Ayn Rand’s Anthem
William Morris’ The Life and Death of Jason
As a child, I was utterly captivated by the enchanting world of old stop-motion movies. Films like Jason and the Argonauts, Sinbad the Sailor, and Jack the Giant Killer held me spellbound with their wondrous creatures and fantastical monsters. Each film was a gateway to a realm where mythical beings came to life, and heroes embarked on epic quests. In … Continue reading William Morris’ The Life and Death of Jason
Marriage, Mischief, and Medieval Mayhem: The Wit and Wisdom of the Wife of Bath
If there's one thing Geoffrey Chaucer wanted us to know from The Canterbury Tales, it's that the 14th century was rife with characters who were just as colourful, complex, and questionable as the ones we know today. Among the motley crew of pilgrims, none stand out quite like the Wife of Bath, a woman who … Continue reading Marriage, Mischief, and Medieval Mayhem: The Wit and Wisdom of the Wife of Bath
Jude the Obscure: Woe, Woe and more Woe
Anything to do with Hardy and I simply can't resist. This post was born of some hastily scribbled notes for an unappreciative, fledgling. but short-lived book club many years ago. After a spit and polish, the result is as follows. Enjoy. Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure is a novel that takes you on a journey through the … Continue reading Jude the Obscure: Woe, Woe and more Woe
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.
