Tag Archives: books

Using Disclaimers Where They Really Count

Posted on January 15, 2009 by John

I just purchased a printing of Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali (with an introduction by W.B. Yeats). It includes the following disclaimer on the title page: “This book is a product of its time and does not reflect the same values as … Continue reading →

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New Insights into Genius?

Posted on January 9, 2007 by John

I am currently reading a fascinating biography of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Mozart: A Life, by Maynard Solomon. Of particular interest to me is its focus on the relationship between father and son as one of the defining aspects of Mozart’s … Continue reading →

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Shine a little light …

Posted on July 26, 2006 by John

   With the replacement of two books in my post-Katrina library, one classic (BKS Iyengar’s Light on Yoga) and a modern interpretation and condensation of that classic, with great illustrations and “work in the posture” tips (Iyengar students Silva, Mira … Continue reading →

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Thought for the Day: On the Arts

Posted on May 12, 2005 by John

From the wonderful book The Maiden King: The Reunion of Masculine and Feminine by Robert Bly and Marion Woodman. This bit from Marion: …the arts are becoming frills in the eyes not only of the government but of many citizens … Continue reading →

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Everything I Needed to Know About Western Culture…

Posted on May 6, 2005 by John

I could have learned by reading Francois Rabelais: or more precisely, simply by reading the Glossary of names, places, events and concepts compiled by the translator of his complete works, Donald Frame. The way that Rabelais wove current and historical … Continue reading →

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Upon Being Invited to Study the Great Books Online

Posted on November 30, 2004 by John

Thanks for the invitation. I must say, having looked into facilitating my own Great Books curriculum at several times in the past, that the concept is neither unfamiliar to me, nor uninviting. However, my reason for declining at present has … Continue reading →

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Thoughts on the 9/11 Report

Posted on August 7, 2004 by John

Well, I have done it. Purchased the “official” 9/11 report. And read it through, at least at this time on a cursory level. I will re-read it in detail, of course. There are a few things that trouble me. They … Continue reading →

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