Since I returned to this blog on November 29 after a 2+ month layoff I promised I would catch you up on what happened during my furlough. So far, I have checked nearly everything off my list except one: a massive Good Eats. Let's do it bullet style.
The Oceanaire (Financial District) - Went here for a work lunch. Pricey, all seafood, well designed interior.
Dempsey's (Everett) - I'd been wanting to try this place since I moved and it didn't disappoint. Great brunch spot.
Boston Market (Medford) - Might have gone once as a kid but otherwise had no familiarity with it. Good chicken but this location seemed a little odd.
Elevation Burger (PA) - We were pretty much starving after an epic basketball game but I think these burgers would have been good even in a normal lunchtime setting.
Philly Soft Pretzel Company (PA) - I'm not a pretzel aficionado but Brig is and she liked them here. Also, they were on an episode of Undercover Boss (hat tip to Sawheels for this tidbit).
El Burrito (PA) - A little hole in the wall Mexican joint but my burrito was much better than expected. And they sell Mexican Coke!
Continental Bakery (Everett) - Another spot in my neighborhood. Avoid Mike's and Modern and come on out to Continental! Not just pastries either, they bake a mean loaf of bread.
The Red Hat (Scollay Square) - I got a Groupon for this place because it's right near my office. The food was underwhelming and Brig thought the beer had a weird taste too.
Sports Grille Boston (North Station) - Went here before a Celts game and it was obviously packed. Every table had it's own TV which is pretty balla.
Anthem (Faneuil Hall) - Went here for another work lunch. It was fine but probably wouldn't feel the need to go back.
Four Burgers (Boston Common) - Big time disappointment. Ordering a burger here is harder than it should be and the fries are worthless.
The Tip Tap Room (Scollay Square) - A new spot that just opened up by my office. Had a great time here.
The Painted Burro (Davis Square) - Recommended by a friend of ours who also eats out a lot. My tostada was fantastic.
*As Brig pointed out in the comments I completely forgot the coup-de-grace. There is a Brazilian steakhouse in our 'hood appropriately named Braza. It is terrible. Bad service, bad seating, bad heating (they had a space heater out in the open) and bad food. The only thing that made it worthwhile was that I had a Groupon so it cost $0 because our waitress couldn't even bother to bring us the beers we ordered. FAIL
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Movie Review: Argo
Argo was amazing. The story itself was a fascinating tale of real life danger and intrigue and then Ben Affleck got his hands on it and Hollywood-ized it in a good way.
The first act was a little unstable for me. The film jumped between the heaviness and direness of the situation these people were in overseas with the lightness and joking of Affleck's character coming up with the movie location scouting idea and teaming up with John Goodman and Alan Arkin to come up with a script and a studio and a press party. Don't get me wrong, these scenes were some of the funniest in the movie but you almost felt bad laughing because of what else was going on.
Once everything was set and the plan was in place the movie just dripped with suspense. Everyone knows what happened to the people so it's simply amazing that Affleck was able to pull off keeping the audience on the edge of their seats and their hands gripping the armrests. Once it ended I had to consciously relax my body again because it was that intense. I think this Affleck kid has a real future in the business.
The first act was a little unstable for me. The film jumped between the heaviness and direness of the situation these people were in overseas with the lightness and joking of Affleck's character coming up with the movie location scouting idea and teaming up with John Goodman and Alan Arkin to come up with a script and a studio and a press party. Don't get me wrong, these scenes were some of the funniest in the movie but you almost felt bad laughing because of what else was going on.
Once everything was set and the plan was in place the movie just dripped with suspense. Everyone knows what happened to the people so it's simply amazing that Affleck was able to pull off keeping the audience on the edge of their seats and their hands gripping the armrests. Once it ended I had to consciously relax my body again because it was that intense. I think this Affleck kid has a real future in the business.
The New Nutcracker
The past few years I've started a tradition of going to the Boston Opera House to see Mikko Nissinen's version of The Nutcracker. My family never went when I was a kid so when I first moved to Boston I thought it would be cool to make it my thing. (Just read last year's post.)
Anyway, this year was the first year Boston Ballet used new sets, costumes and props. At first, I was hesitant. The intro was different, the living room scene felt a little off, and for much of the first act I felt gypped. What got everything back on course was when midnight hit and everything turned crazy. The Nutcracker is a man! The Rat King is a great swordsman! From that point on I was in like Flint.
Overall, I give it 2 thumbs up. Most of my early issues revolved around the new sets and trying to find everything in its new place. (The tree is in the center of the stage now instead of the left. The grandfather clock is in the front left instead of the back right.) Once you acclimate yourself though you will be happy as a clam. And for anyone who hasn't seen Boston Ballet's performance before this will be a complete non-issue. It is running through December 30 so make sure to check it out while you still have a chance!
Anyway, this year was the first year Boston Ballet used new sets, costumes and props. At first, I was hesitant. The intro was different, the living room scene felt a little off, and for much of the first act I felt gypped. What got everything back on course was when midnight hit and everything turned crazy. The Nutcracker is a man! The Rat King is a great swordsman! From that point on I was in like Flint.
Overall, I give it 2 thumbs up. Most of my early issues revolved around the new sets and trying to find everything in its new place. (The tree is in the center of the stage now instead of the left. The grandfather clock is in the front left instead of the back right.) Once you acclimate yourself though you will be happy as a clam. And for anyone who hasn't seen Boston Ballet's performance before this will be a complete non-issue. It is running through December 30 so make sure to check it out while you still have a chance!
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Book Review: I Suck at Girls
by: Justin Halpern
Two things before I jump into this post. First, you may have noticed that I deleted the tab up top for "Recent Books." If you scroll down to the bottom of this page you will see why... Shelfari! Everyone likes visuals and I prefer this approach to showing off my reading collection. The second thing is, I still have love for Goodreads. I use that site to track what books I want to read, what I'm reading currently and to rate the books I've completed. That won't change but they didn't have a blog widget like Shelfari. Now, to the book!
I did not like Halpern's first effort, Shit My Dad Says. Why would I go back for more? Three reasons: 1) It was only 170 pages. 2) I read a preview chapter online that was funny. 3) I also suck at girls. And my leap of faith was greatly rewarded.
I loved this book. It was extremely funny, Halpern kept the story moving and he stayed out of his own way (which he wasn't able to do in his first book). His dad was in there -- of course -- but much more naturally and his comments actually fit and flowed. If you're a guy you have to read this. If you're a girl, well, I have no idea what you like. Halpern never quite figures that out either.
Two things before I jump into this post. First, you may have noticed that I deleted the tab up top for "Recent Books." If you scroll down to the bottom of this page you will see why... Shelfari! Everyone likes visuals and I prefer this approach to showing off my reading collection. The second thing is, I still have love for Goodreads. I use that site to track what books I want to read, what I'm reading currently and to rate the books I've completed. That won't change but they didn't have a blog widget like Shelfari. Now, to the book!
I did not like Halpern's first effort, Shit My Dad Says. Why would I go back for more? Three reasons: 1) It was only 170 pages. 2) I read a preview chapter online that was funny. 3) I also suck at girls. And my leap of faith was greatly rewarded.
I loved this book. It was extremely funny, Halpern kept the story moving and he stayed out of his own way (which he wasn't able to do in his first book). His dad was in there -- of course -- but much more naturally and his comments actually fit and flowed. If you're a guy you have to read this. If you're a girl, well, I have no idea what you like. Halpern never quite figures that out either.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Book Review: I Am a Pole (And So Can You!)
by: Stephen Colbert
I was at the library perusing the new book section (which I just found 18 months after I started going here. Really, no signage?) and came across this book:
_cover.jpg)
I haven't read Colbert's first book but I think he's hilarious. Plus, this made me think it would be like a Go The Fuck To Sleep type of "adult" children's book. See, it's 32 pages long and the size of a Where's Waldo? book.
It's probably not giving too much away to say that this pole is trying to figure out what type of pole it is -- a ski pole? A barber's pole? A stripper pole? Yeah, so it's not exactly for kids and the illustration for that one I'll leave up to your imagination. But it's funny so spend the two and a half minutes it takes to read.
I was at the library perusing the new book section (which I just found 18 months after I started going here. Really, no signage?) and came across this book:
I haven't read Colbert's first book but I think he's hilarious. Plus, this made me think it would be like a Go The Fuck To Sleep type of "adult" children's book. See, it's 32 pages long and the size of a Where's Waldo? book.
It's probably not giving too much away to say that this pole is trying to figure out what type of pole it is -- a ski pole? A barber's pole? A stripper pole? Yeah, so it's not exactly for kids and the illustration for that one I'll leave up to your imagination. But it's funny so spend the two and a half minutes it takes to read.
Book Review: Gone Girl
by: Gillian Flynn
Brig recommended this book to me and if it was already old news back when she read it, then 3 more months probably isn't a big deal.
Gone Girl is about a husband whose wife goes missing on their fifth anniversary. The chapters switch between the husband narrating what's happening in the present and the wife's diary entries. We learn quite a bit about their relationship and how their lives led up to that fateful day.
There are quite a few twists I didn't see coming and the story always kept me enrapt. It was a book I put down (multiple times) but that's only because in real life sometimes you have other things to do. I'm not one to indulge in large swaths of reading at once but here it was easy to knock out 70-100 pages in a sitting.
And the true sign of a good recommendation, I think I will be checking out Flynn's other books now with equally high hopes.
Brig recommended this book to me and if it was already old news back when she read it, then 3 more months probably isn't a big deal.
Gone Girl is about a husband whose wife goes missing on their fifth anniversary. The chapters switch between the husband narrating what's happening in the present and the wife's diary entries. We learn quite a bit about their relationship and how their lives led up to that fateful day.
There are quite a few twists I didn't see coming and the story always kept me enrapt. It was a book I put down (multiple times) but that's only because in real life sometimes you have other things to do. I'm not one to indulge in large swaths of reading at once but here it was easy to knock out 70-100 pages in a sitting.
And the true sign of a good recommendation, I think I will be checking out Flynn's other books now with equally high hopes.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Just keep swimming
Finding Nemo was released in 2003. Little Miss Sunshine came out in 2006. Both of these movies finally became mine in 2012. Why is this a big deal? Because I have had both of these DVDs on my birthday list and Christmas list since they became available.
I'll give each movie an extra year -- assuming that they didn't come out on home video until after Christmas of their release year. That means Little Miss Sunshine was on my lists 12 times and Finding Nemo 18 times before someone actually stepped up and got them for me.
It's not like these aren't well-known films. Finding Nemo may have been in and out of the Disney vault but Little Miss Sunshine was out there. I know because I got it for my sister one Christmas. But no retribution.
Luckily, I have a wonderful gal who cares about these things. She asked for Christmas gift ideas and I sent her my list. She posited, correctly, that I also sent this list to my family and that there was a chance someone would duplicate efforts. I pointed out these 2 movies and told her this tale... likely guaranteeing that someone else will also finally give in to my years of wanting. Oh well. Rejoice!
I'll give each movie an extra year -- assuming that they didn't come out on home video until after Christmas of their release year. That means Little Miss Sunshine was on my lists 12 times and Finding Nemo 18 times before someone actually stepped up and got them for me.
It's not like these aren't well-known films. Finding Nemo may have been in and out of the Disney vault but Little Miss Sunshine was out there. I know because I got it for my sister one Christmas. But no retribution.
Luckily, I have a wonderful gal who cares about these things. She asked for Christmas gift ideas and I sent her my list. She posited, correctly, that I also sent this list to my family and that there was a chance someone would duplicate efforts. I pointed out these 2 movies and told her this tale... likely guaranteeing that someone else will also finally give in to my years of wanting. Oh well. Rejoice!
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Hawaiian Good Eats
This is probably going to end up longer than I hoped but every restaurant has a story behind it. And I understand if you don't care. I wouldn't have cared (and didn't care) until I went to Hawaii myself. Now that I'm back I notice it everywhere and crave more. So this is for me and my fellow island visitors.
Travaasa is the name of a hotel in Hana. It's about the only thing in Hana. We quickly realized this as our plan to drive the Road to Hana involved getting lunch in the namesake town and there wasn't exactly a "town". So we stopped there to have brunch. Brig ordered banana pancakes (w/ macadamia nuts & coconut syrup!) and a side of pineapple and I got eggs benedict (I know, boring. But they're new to me and I'm kind of obsessed now.) The waitress brought out a plate with legit one full side of a pineapple. It was the greatest thing I have ever tasted. I will never have pineapple again unless I'm in Hawaii because what we consider to be pineapple is not actually pineapple.
Cafe O'Lei is not a French restaurant (Cafe Au Lait) like Brig thought or a Mexican restaurant (Cafe Ole) like I thought. I don't remember this restaurant very well but I think it was OK. We ordered our first mai tais here.
Fred's Mexican Cafe & Cantina is a place Brig had heard about through her preparations for our trip. We sat outside and enjoyed their selection of real tropical beers (read: not Corona). Brig ordered an enchilada and the cook wrote Aloha on it in sour cream! If you like the Border Cafes/Margarita's of the world this is of the same ilk.
Kula Lodge & Restaurant was another Travaasa-type stop as we were hungry and happened to see it. The host took a while to seat us (he was running around but it wasn't busy). They had floor to ceiling windows so you could see their outside area but it was closed that day. This was another place we ordered brunch from. (It took us about half the week to get our bodies in synch with the 6 hour time difference.)
I made a point to check into all our restaurants on Foursquare for the express purpose of recreating our experience (and showing off to all my Twitter followers) but one place I didn't check in was Jack in the Box. That's right, we were in Maui and went to a Jack in the Box. Truth is neither Brig nor I had been to one before and we wanted to try it. The big letdown was that they were out of sourdough so half their sandwiches were off the board.
Kihei Aloha Ice Cream was a little place that had 100 different flavors written on a chalk board that took up one entire wall. I'm not a big I Scream guy but I liked it.
Moose McGillycuddy's shares a space with Fred's and is located right above it. They had some great burgers and Brig even got to keep her beer glass for her birthday! (They don't know this.)
Mama's Fish House is one of the best recommended restaurants on Maui. It is, of course, a seafood specialty place. They had their own private beach and were very popular. We had to make dinner reservations for 4:30 (which actually wasn't bad considering it was 10:30 EST). Their menu was updated daily and gave specific information on the fish they caught, who caught it, and where they caught it. For example, "Deep-water Ahi caught ten miles offshore from Hana by Matt Smith." Yeah, it was pretty serious. The food was top notch and I liked everything except our waiter.
Fat Boy Burger was kind of an accident. Brig had been watching the local channel the night before and it mentioned a restaurant down the street from us that she wanted to try. We had the address but 100% could not find the place. So instead, I saw this burger place (of course I did) and that's where we ended up. The burgers were fine, nothing extraordinary. It's not a dine-in restaurant but they do have a few tables set up in the courtyard.
Thursday night, we went to a luau at the Wailea Marriot called Te Au Moana (The Ocean Tide). First, it was a fantastic show but it also included a pig roast buffet (excellent) and an open bar. This is the luau to go to when you visit Maui.
Cheeseburger in Paradise was a spot that was recommended to us by someone at Ulua Beach. She had been staying in Lahaina and we were planning on taking a day trip up there so we added it to the itinerary. The place was packed but was very low-key. It was right on the beach and you could see the little crabs scuttling around below. Brig was able to get a huge tiki glass (she bought it this time) to take home.
Maui Tacos is a Hawaiian chain. They have a bunch of locations all over the island, usually pretty small shops. We saw a lot of people picking up to-go orders and only a few ate there. We went in not expecting much but were pleasantly surprised. I'd be remiss if I didn't tell you we considered opening a franchise here. I think it would be a big success.
Maui Gelato was a clean, bright place with a very knowledgable server. I say all that because I didn't like it at all. I got mint that was too minty and it turned into liquid too quickly and I got it all over myself. Next.
Last but not least was Stinger Ray's Tropical Bar & Grill. We spent 4 hours there waiting for our flight in the Kahului Airport. Good beer, good service, plenty of apps. Just don't get the chili chees fries before a 5 hour, overnight flight. You're welcome.
Travaasa is the name of a hotel in Hana. It's about the only thing in Hana. We quickly realized this as our plan to drive the Road to Hana involved getting lunch in the namesake town and there wasn't exactly a "town". So we stopped there to have brunch. Brig ordered banana pancakes (w/ macadamia nuts & coconut syrup!) and a side of pineapple and I got eggs benedict (I know, boring. But they're new to me and I'm kind of obsessed now.) The waitress brought out a plate with legit one full side of a pineapple. It was the greatest thing I have ever tasted. I will never have pineapple again unless I'm in Hawaii because what we consider to be pineapple is not actually pineapple.
Cafe O'Lei is not a French restaurant (Cafe Au Lait) like Brig thought or a Mexican restaurant (Cafe Ole) like I thought. I don't remember this restaurant very well but I think it was OK. We ordered our first mai tais here.
Fred's Mexican Cafe & Cantina is a place Brig had heard about through her preparations for our trip. We sat outside and enjoyed their selection of real tropical beers (read: not Corona). Brig ordered an enchilada and the cook wrote Aloha on it in sour cream! If you like the Border Cafes/Margarita's of the world this is of the same ilk.
Kula Lodge & Restaurant was another Travaasa-type stop as we were hungry and happened to see it. The host took a while to seat us (he was running around but it wasn't busy). They had floor to ceiling windows so you could see their outside area but it was closed that day. This was another place we ordered brunch from. (It took us about half the week to get our bodies in synch with the 6 hour time difference.)
I made a point to check into all our restaurants on Foursquare for the express purpose of recreating our experience (and showing off to all my Twitter followers) but one place I didn't check in was Jack in the Box. That's right, we were in Maui and went to a Jack in the Box. Truth is neither Brig nor I had been to one before and we wanted to try it. The big letdown was that they were out of sourdough so half their sandwiches were off the board.
Kihei Aloha Ice Cream was a little place that had 100 different flavors written on a chalk board that took up one entire wall. I'm not a big I Scream guy but I liked it.
Moose McGillycuddy's shares a space with Fred's and is located right above it. They had some great burgers and Brig even got to keep her beer glass for her birthday! (They don't know this.)
Mama's Fish House is one of the best recommended restaurants on Maui. It is, of course, a seafood specialty place. They had their own private beach and were very popular. We had to make dinner reservations for 4:30 (which actually wasn't bad considering it was 10:30 EST). Their menu was updated daily and gave specific information on the fish they caught, who caught it, and where they caught it. For example, "Deep-water Ahi caught ten miles offshore from Hana by Matt Smith." Yeah, it was pretty serious. The food was top notch and I liked everything except our waiter.
Fat Boy Burger was kind of an accident. Brig had been watching the local channel the night before and it mentioned a restaurant down the street from us that she wanted to try. We had the address but 100% could not find the place. So instead, I saw this burger place (of course I did) and that's where we ended up. The burgers were fine, nothing extraordinary. It's not a dine-in restaurant but they do have a few tables set up in the courtyard.
Thursday night, we went to a luau at the Wailea Marriot called Te Au Moana (The Ocean Tide). First, it was a fantastic show but it also included a pig roast buffet (excellent) and an open bar. This is the luau to go to when you visit Maui.
Cheeseburger in Paradise was a spot that was recommended to us by someone at Ulua Beach. She had been staying in Lahaina and we were planning on taking a day trip up there so we added it to the itinerary. The place was packed but was very low-key. It was right on the beach and you could see the little crabs scuttling around below. Brig was able to get a huge tiki glass (she bought it this time) to take home.
Maui Tacos is a Hawaiian chain. They have a bunch of locations all over the island, usually pretty small shops. We saw a lot of people picking up to-go orders and only a few ate there. We went in not expecting much but were pleasantly surprised. I'd be remiss if I didn't tell you we considered opening a franchise here. I think it would be a big success.
Maui Gelato was a clean, bright place with a very knowledgable server. I say all that because I didn't like it at all. I got mint that was too minty and it turned into liquid too quickly and I got it all over myself. Next.
Last but not least was Stinger Ray's Tropical Bar & Grill. We spent 4 hours there waiting for our flight in the Kahului Airport. Good beer, good service, plenty of apps. Just don't get the chili chees fries before a 5 hour, overnight flight. You're welcome.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Sick Dreams (Are Made of This)
I rarely have dreams. I don't know if that's weird but that's me. Sunday evening, I started coming down with a cold. My throat started getting scratchy and it was a dead giveaway. What I didn't know was what it would do to my subconscious.
That night, the next night and again last night I had multiple dreams. They weren't related and they weren't about anything I had been thinking about so who knows where they came from? I don't know the science behind it but they appear to be a direct byproduct of my illness. I don't usually start dreaming when I'm sick so it's been a strange occurence. Should I tell the doctor about this "symptom"? Should I buy a dream book? Should I ask the Eurythmics?
That night, the next night and again last night I had multiple dreams. They weren't related and they weren't about anything I had been thinking about so who knows where they came from? I don't know the science behind it but they appear to be a direct byproduct of my illness. I don't usually start dreaming when I'm sick so it's been a strange occurence. Should I tell the doctor about this "symptom"? Should I buy a dream book? Should I ask the Eurythmics?
Monday, December 3, 2012
Re-sign Wes Welker
This past offseason the Patriots had a chance to lock up Wes Welker to a long-term agreement. Instead, they offered him what was in essence a 1 year contract. Proving that his past 5 years in New England were no accident, Welker has put up huge numbers again this year and is showing his deservance of a multi-year deal.
The Patriots traded for Welker before the 2007 season. If you recall, that team is the only one in NFL history to have a 16-0 regular season. Since that time, Welker has been named to 4 Pro Bowls, has 4 All Pro selections, led the league in receptions 3 times, led the league in receiving yards once, holds the record for longest reception in NFL history and was the fastest receiver to record 500 catches for one team.
Just check out these stats from his Patriots tenure:
2007- 112 receptions, 1175 yards, 8 TDs
2008- 111 receptions, 1165 yards, 3 TDs
2009- 123 receptions, 1348 yards, 4 TDs
2010 (came back early from MCL/ACL injury) - 86 receptions, 848 yards, 7 TDs
2011- 122 receptions, 1569 yards, 9 TDs
2012 (through 12 games)- 92 receptions, 1064 yards, 4 TDs
He also holds Patriots team records for most receptions, most receptions in a season, most receiving yards in a season, most seasons with 100+ receptions, best receiving yards per game average and he has even more in his sights. He is only 31 years old and as a slot receiver he is more likely to age gracefully then to fall off the map.
I know Belichick thinks no one is untouchable (see: Richard Seymour, Asante Samuel, Deion Branch) but there is no replacing Wes Welker. Give him 3 years, $36 million -- whatever it takes. Get. A. Deal. Done.
The Patriots traded for Welker before the 2007 season. If you recall, that team is the only one in NFL history to have a 16-0 regular season. Since that time, Welker has been named to 4 Pro Bowls, has 4 All Pro selections, led the league in receptions 3 times, led the league in receiving yards once, holds the record for longest reception in NFL history and was the fastest receiver to record 500 catches for one team.
Just check out these stats from his Patriots tenure:
2007- 112 receptions, 1175 yards, 8 TDs
2008- 111 receptions, 1165 yards, 3 TDs
2009- 123 receptions, 1348 yards, 4 TDs
2010 (came back early from MCL/ACL injury) - 86 receptions, 848 yards, 7 TDs
2011- 122 receptions, 1569 yards, 9 TDs
2012 (through 12 games)- 92 receptions, 1064 yards, 4 TDs
He also holds Patriots team records for most receptions, most receptions in a season, most receiving yards in a season, most seasons with 100+ receptions, best receiving yards per game average and he has even more in his sights. He is only 31 years old and as a slot receiver he is more likely to age gracefully then to fall off the map.
I know Belichick thinks no one is untouchable (see: Richard Seymour, Asante Samuel, Deion Branch) but there is no replacing Wes Welker. Give him 3 years, $36 million -- whatever it takes. Get. A. Deal. Done.
This Charming Man
On November 4, I saw the front man of my favorite band play a solo show at the Somerville Theater. In case you didn't guess it from the title (which is a song by The Smiths that they covered) this person is Ben Gibbard.
I have seen Death Cab play two or three times previously but I couldn't pass up a chance to see Ben perform in a more intimate setting. Brig was completely wowed and I think fell in love with him that night.
He played a lengthy set between guitar and piano and made sure not to ignore any part of his large body of work. Of course he played Death Cab and Postal Service songs but he also went all the way back to his All-Time Quarterback days. I was especially excited when he broke out You Remind Me of Home from the HOME Vol. 5 EP (and which you may have heard in this Dell commercial).
I posted as much of his playlist as I could remember on my Tumblr page: yeewuz.tumblr.com.
I have seen Death Cab play two or three times previously but I couldn't pass up a chance to see Ben perform in a more intimate setting. Brig was completely wowed and I think fell in love with him that night.
He played a lengthy set between guitar and piano and made sure not to ignore any part of his large body of work. Of course he played Death Cab and Postal Service songs but he also went all the way back to his All-Time Quarterback days. I was especially excited when he broke out You Remind Me of Home from the HOME Vol. 5 EP (and which you may have heard in this Dell commercial).
I posted as much of his playlist as I could remember on my Tumblr page: yeewuz.tumblr.com.
Book Review: Red Sox Triviology: Fascinating Facts from the Bleacher Seats
by: Neil Shalin
With a great byline like that, how could you go wrong? I'll tell you how:
Adrian Gonzalez - ranked 6th best first baseman in Red Sox history
Adrian Beltre - ranked 10th best third baseman in Red Sox history
Carl Crawford - ranked 7th best left fielder in Red Sox history
Are you kidding me? Beltre was only in Boston 1 year. Gonzalez had only been here 1 year (the book was published in October 2011) and is now gone. Carl Crawford put up the worst stats of his career (batted .255/.289 with only 18 steals) in his 1 full season with the Sox. How do you rank these guys that high on the All-Time Red Sox List?
Take a good, hard look at the cover of this book. If you see it just turn and walk away.
With a great byline like that, how could you go wrong? I'll tell you how:
Adrian Gonzalez - ranked 6th best first baseman in Red Sox history
Adrian Beltre - ranked 10th best third baseman in Red Sox history
Carl Crawford - ranked 7th best left fielder in Red Sox history
Are you kidding me? Beltre was only in Boston 1 year. Gonzalez had only been here 1 year (the book was published in October 2011) and is now gone. Carl Crawford put up the worst stats of his career (batted .255/.289 with only 18 steals) in his 1 full season with the Sox. How do you rank these guys that high on the All-Time Red Sox List?
Take a good, hard look at the cover of this book. If you see it just turn and walk away.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Movie Reviews
I watch my fair share of movies although I don't go to the theaters all that much. The last movie I reviewed was The Dark Knight Rises back in August so I'm overdue. I have seen six movies since then that were released in 2012. Two were in the theater, two were on an airplane and two were streamed. I'll start with the best and work my way down.
Skyfall - In a word, fantastic. This movie completely picked up where Casino Royale left off and redeemed everyone involved after the Quantum of Solace disappointment. You wouldn't think you could be surprised going into a Bond film (it's not like you can kill him or anything) but this one really threw some curveballs. Javier Bardem's introduction is one of those scenes that people will be talking about forever. Grade: A+
The Amazing Spider-Man - I wasn't ready for another Spiderman (I don't use the hyphen) and after seeing the previews I wasn't sure I liked how Andrew Garfield was playing him. He seemed bratty and sarcastic, which I guess is what's cool nowadays. But the character ended up being so much more and he did a good job separating himself from Tobey Maguire. I can't say the same for the rest of the movie but it's not like you can completely change Spiderman's origin story. Grade: B+
The Campaign - Will Ferrell's movie career started off strong but he's been spotty ever since. For every Step Brothers or The Other Guys he makes a Semi-Pro and Land of the Lost. The Campaign is right in the middle. He plays another outrageous character and has some funny one-liners but not enough to make a whole movie. Hopefully, Anchorman 2 will restore his place on the comedy throne. Grade: B
Looper - I've always liked certain aspects of sci-fi films and time travel especially is a fascinating topic. This movie is about Joseph Gordon-Levitt (in heavy makeup) dealing with the consequences of his older self (Bruce Willis) being sent back to his time. It's an interesting concept but -- as is always the case -- it is tough to explain in any sensible way. It's a thriller nonetheless and I found it enjoyable. Grade: B
What To Expect When You're Expecting - Kind of girly? Yes, but still made with boyfriends/husbands in mind. The funniest parts for me were every scene with the dad's group including Chris Rock, Rob Heubel and Thomas Lennon. What I didn't know going in was just how many differing storylines there were. We've got Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks and Anna Kendrick and none of them have anything to do with each other. Why not have your stars interact in a scene or two? Grade: C+
Bachelorette - This movie tried to combine The Hangover with Bridesmaids. It wasn't successful. First, the good: Kudos for bringing Adam Scott and Lizzy Caplan back together (RIP, Party Down). That's it. Now the bad: Boo for sticking Rebel Wilson, who seems genuinely funny, in the Justin Bartha role of being a main part of the plot but barely in the movie. Boo for having the main girls be way-beyond-recreational-but-pretty-much-addicted drug users. And for all the girls out there, boo for having Caplan, Kirsten Dunst and Isla Fisher play such broad stereotypes. Dunst is "the bitch," Fisher is "the drunk slut" and Caplan is just as annoying. Grade: D
Skyfall - In a word, fantastic. This movie completely picked up where Casino Royale left off and redeemed everyone involved after the Quantum of Solace disappointment. You wouldn't think you could be surprised going into a Bond film (it's not like you can kill him or anything) but this one really threw some curveballs. Javier Bardem's introduction is one of those scenes that people will be talking about forever. Grade: A+
The Amazing Spider-Man - I wasn't ready for another Spiderman (I don't use the hyphen) and after seeing the previews I wasn't sure I liked how Andrew Garfield was playing him. He seemed bratty and sarcastic, which I guess is what's cool nowadays. But the character ended up being so much more and he did a good job separating himself from Tobey Maguire. I can't say the same for the rest of the movie but it's not like you can completely change Spiderman's origin story. Grade: B+
The Campaign - Will Ferrell's movie career started off strong but he's been spotty ever since. For every Step Brothers or The Other Guys he makes a Semi-Pro and Land of the Lost. The Campaign is right in the middle. He plays another outrageous character and has some funny one-liners but not enough to make a whole movie. Hopefully, Anchorman 2 will restore his place on the comedy throne. Grade: B
Looper - I've always liked certain aspects of sci-fi films and time travel especially is a fascinating topic. This movie is about Joseph Gordon-Levitt (in heavy makeup) dealing with the consequences of his older self (Bruce Willis) being sent back to his time. It's an interesting concept but -- as is always the case -- it is tough to explain in any sensible way. It's a thriller nonetheless and I found it enjoyable. Grade: B
What To Expect When You're Expecting - Kind of girly? Yes, but still made with boyfriends/husbands in mind. The funniest parts for me were every scene with the dad's group including Chris Rock, Rob Heubel and Thomas Lennon. What I didn't know going in was just how many differing storylines there were. We've got Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks and Anna Kendrick and none of them have anything to do with each other. Why not have your stars interact in a scene or two? Grade: C+
Bachelorette - This movie tried to combine The Hangover with Bridesmaids. It wasn't successful. First, the good: Kudos for bringing Adam Scott and Lizzy Caplan back together (RIP, Party Down). That's it. Now the bad: Boo for sticking Rebel Wilson, who seems genuinely funny, in the Justin Bartha role of being a main part of the plot but barely in the movie. Boo for having the main girls be way-beyond-recreational-but-pretty-much-addicted drug users. And for all the girls out there, boo for having Caplan, Kirsten Dunst and Isla Fisher play such broad stereotypes. Dunst is "the bitch," Fisher is "the drunk slut" and Caplan is just as annoying. Grade: D
Raging Rajon Rondo Returns
In case you haven't heard, Rajon Rondo has been suspended 2 games for fighting with ex-Mr. Kim Kardashian. You may remember hearing me talk about a similar event not even 7 months ago. Of course, we have tickets for tonight's game which will now be played without their best player.
That's right, believe it or not Rondo is the Celtics best player at this point. He is going to be the one to lead them to another championship. It's one thing to stick up for a teammate but you can't incite a riot. He needs to learn self-control.
Rondo was having a great season up to this point and had just tied John Stockton with 37 straight games with 10+ assists (trailing only Magic Johnson with 46). Now, that streak is over because of his immaturity and recklessness. 2 steps forward, 3 steps back.
He's still an All Star player and it's only two games (Albeit one that we're going to. Can we get reimbursed?) but he needs to learn. If I'm writing another one of these posts in 7 months maybe it will be time to stop chalking it up to youthful indiscretion and instead start looking at him as someone with serious character issues.
That's right, believe it or not Rondo is the Celtics best player at this point. He is going to be the one to lead them to another championship. It's one thing to stick up for a teammate but you can't incite a riot. He needs to learn self-control.
Rondo was having a great season up to this point and had just tied John Stockton with 37 straight games with 10+ assists (trailing only Magic Johnson with 46). Now, that streak is over because of his immaturity and recklessness. 2 steps forward, 3 steps back.
He's still an All Star player and it's only two games (Albeit one that we're going to. Can we get reimbursed?) but he needs to learn. If I'm writing another one of these posts in 7 months maybe it will be time to stop chalking it up to youthful indiscretion and instead start looking at him as someone with serious character issues.
Thanksgiving
Last Thursday, I skipped out on Thanksgiving with my family for the first time ever and instead celebrated it just outside Philadelphia with Brig's sister (Sarah) and her boyfriend (Brendan). We left Thursday morning which was smart because traffic wasn't bad. We arrived early afternoon and I proceeded to get a tour of their abode. Soon enough there was football on the TV and food on our plates. The most striking thing had to be just how colorful the courses were. Purple mashed potatoes, homemade cranberry sauce, green bean casserole -- if I ever instagrammed that would have been the time. An hour or two after dinner we decided to head to the basketball court. Couple vs couple. I have some height on Brendan but Sarah has about a foot on Brig. We played hard but ended up losing 11-9. We would have our revenge.
Friday, we got up early to visit a friend of the sisters named Michele. Every year she and her husband have a tree trimming celebration the day after Thanksgiving. I got to meet her kids who just turned 3 and who were all energy. She made breakfast for us which was delicious. I had some pancakes, bacon, quiche and fruit salad. Oddly, they seemed to have an artificial Christmas tree which of course didn't need to be trimmed but we did put some lights on it.
Brig & I left to visit the Elmwood Park Zoo. It is undoubtedly the smallest zoo I have ever been to. Even Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA (which had held that claim) was bigger. I think we knocked it out in 45 minutes, without rushing, and counting the three times we visited the cougar den hoping it would stop hiding. It was still pretty cool because we got to see a jaguar, a black jaguar, a bobcat (I like the big cats) and many more fanciful creatures.
After the zoo I was starving but we had a basketball rematch scheduled. Brig & I quickly dispatched them 11-8 and we weren't arrested even though a sign said we weren't allowed to curse on the court (oops). We went to Elevation Burger for lunch and then got ice cream. This was followed by some friends joining us at the house for a night full of drinking and Rock Band. Except Brig who went to bed hella early. Can you say lightweight?
Saturday, we were supposed to head into Philly and do the tourist-y stuff but we all decided to just have a lazy day. We watched True Lies, went to El Burrito and started Season 2 of Game of Thrones. Sunday, we said our goodbyes and had a little slower drive back but still not bad. I also got a text that my parents had bought a house in Florida. Geez, I miss one family Thanksgiving and they decide to up and leave.
Friday, we got up early to visit a friend of the sisters named Michele. Every year she and her husband have a tree trimming celebration the day after Thanksgiving. I got to meet her kids who just turned 3 and who were all energy. She made breakfast for us which was delicious. I had some pancakes, bacon, quiche and fruit salad. Oddly, they seemed to have an artificial Christmas tree which of course didn't need to be trimmed but we did put some lights on it.
Brig & I left to visit the Elmwood Park Zoo. It is undoubtedly the smallest zoo I have ever been to. Even Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA (which had held that claim) was bigger. I think we knocked it out in 45 minutes, without rushing, and counting the three times we visited the cougar den hoping it would stop hiding. It was still pretty cool because we got to see a jaguar, a black jaguar, a bobcat (I like the big cats) and many more fanciful creatures.
After the zoo I was starving but we had a basketball rematch scheduled. Brig & I quickly dispatched them 11-8 and we weren't arrested even though a sign said we weren't allowed to curse on the court (oops). We went to Elevation Burger for lunch and then got ice cream. This was followed by some friends joining us at the house for a night full of drinking and Rock Band. Except Brig who went to bed hella early. Can you say lightweight?
Saturday, we were supposed to head into Philly and do the tourist-y stuff but we all decided to just have a lazy day. We watched True Lies, went to El Burrito and started Season 2 of Game of Thrones. Sunday, we said our goodbyes and had a little slower drive back but still not bad. I also got a text that my parents had bought a house in Florida. Geez, I miss one family Thanksgiving and they decide to up and leave.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Welcome back, John Farrell
Sox fans have loved John Farrell ever since he first arrived in November 2006. He immediately turned around Josh Beckett (5.01 ERA in '06, 3.27 ERA in '07), helped Jon Lester successfully return from cancer treatment and incorporated new Japanese import Daisuke Matsuzaka (15 wins in his first season in MLB). Oh yeah, and they won the World Series that year with all four starting pitchers winning their games. He could do no wrong.
In October 2010, we were all sad to see him head north to Toronto but could only wish him well. The opportunity to manage his own team was a great opportunity; something he wouldn't get in Boston with the immortal Terry Francona. Of course, September 2011 happened and people started clamoring to bring Farrell back. Toronto would have none of it though so the Bobby Valentine Era happened. Fast forward one year and we finally got our man.
I think this is a great move. It's more than just trying to relive the glory days by bringing back one of the main components but it's bringing in a guy with a lot of skill and knowledge. He knows this team. He is the definition of hitting the ground running. I have complete confidence in John Farrell and in spite of the past two years I am actually looking forward to this coming season.
In October 2010, we were all sad to see him head north to Toronto but could only wish him well. The opportunity to manage his own team was a great opportunity; something he wouldn't get in Boston with the immortal Terry Francona. Of course, September 2011 happened and people started clamoring to bring Farrell back. Toronto would have none of it though so the Bobby Valentine Era happened. Fast forward one year and we finally got our man.
I think this is a great move. It's more than just trying to relive the glory days by bringing back one of the main components but it's bringing in a guy with a lot of skill and knowledge. He knows this team. He is the definition of hitting the ground running. I have complete confidence in John Farrell and in spite of the past two years I am actually looking forward to this coming season.
Halloween
Brig and I had a heck of a day a couple weeks before Halloween. We were going to go apple picking with a mutual friend but she was running late. We got on the road and followed the GPS to where it said the apple orchard was. It wasn't. Since it was already late afternoon we decided to go to a local mall where our friend said they had a costume shop. We looked at the directory but couldn't find it. Of course, we figured that was because it's a seasonal store. So we went to the information desk and the woman told us that no, they do not have a Halloween shop at the mall. Back to square one.
On the way home Brig remembered a place near us called Spirit that had just set up shop. I went in looking for ideas while Brig went in looking for Monterey Jack. What we ended up with were two joint costumes: Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head and Buzz Lightyear & Jessie. This worked out perfectly because 1) Everyone loves couples who dress thematically similar and 2) We had two Halloween events on our social calendar.
The first was a house party in Shrewsbury with my college friends. We went as the Potato Heads and definitely won the (non-existent) costume contest. We did some pumpkin pie shots, played beirut and had a eat-a-donut-off-a-string race (which Brig and I finished 1-2 in).
The second was the Halloween Bar Crawl around Faneuil Hall. You may remember last year's. This year was very different. First, ournon-apple picking, non-Halloween store knowing friend bailed and then I realized too late that Buzz would have been better at the house party. The first time I tried to walk up to the bar my wings were smacking everyone I tried to get by. They were inflatable and I'm sure nobody really cared but I was so annoyed by it.
The best part, as always, was commenting on other people's costumes. Our other friend showed up with a guy who claimed to be Mario but was so clearly Fred Flintstone. Brig berated the Monopoly Man for not having a mustache. And then there was Psy. No one really noticed he was there until Gangnam Style came on; then he was the king of the dance floor. Everyone encircled him as he did the dance moves from the video. As soon as it ended he was off to another bar, waiting for his next chance to do it all again.
On the way home Brig remembered a place near us called Spirit that had just set up shop. I went in looking for ideas while Brig went in looking for Monterey Jack. What we ended up with were two joint costumes: Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head and Buzz Lightyear & Jessie. This worked out perfectly because 1) Everyone loves couples who dress thematically similar and 2) We had two Halloween events on our social calendar.
The first was a house party in Shrewsbury with my college friends. We went as the Potato Heads and definitely won the (non-existent) costume contest. We did some pumpkin pie shots, played beirut and had a eat-a-donut-off-a-string race (which Brig and I finished 1-2 in).
The second was the Halloween Bar Crawl around Faneuil Hall. You may remember last year's. This year was very different. First, our
The best part, as always, was commenting on other people's costumes. Our other friend showed up with a guy who claimed to be Mario but was so clearly Fred Flintstone. Brig berated the Monopoly Man for not having a mustache. And then there was Psy. No one really noticed he was there until Gangnam Style came on; then he was the king of the dance floor. Everyone encircled him as he did the dance moves from the video. As soon as it ended he was off to another bar, waiting for his next chance to do it all again.
A(nother) Wedding
The last of my college buddies has taken the dive. Jason in 2010, Jay in 2011 and now Jay in 2012. Certainly not me in 2013 so don't ask.
His wedding and reception were both held at the Danversport Yacht Club. The three of us weregroomsmen ushers but certainly didn't complain. The bar was a cash bar but we certainly didn't complain. The DJ was... actually, I think the DJ was pretty good. I'm being a little melodramatic but we actually had a fine time. The food was good, the video diary was cool and hanging out at the hotel afterwards was fun.
It's just hard to believe that we're already at this "adult" phase of our lives. Weddings? Owning homes? Kids??? Our 5 year college reunion was just this year! Per usual, growing older scares me.
It's one thing to witness others do it, even though it still gets in my head a bit. But then to actually consider these things for myself? It's like a constant freakout. Nothing really changes when you buy a house or when you get married but at the same time everything changes. I've come to the realization that I'll never feel ready for these things even though I actually am and want them.
I've got the house so that's a step. I'm apparently getting a cat next year so that's happening. Plus, I've got this gal who's eagerly awaiting my move. It doesn't really sound scary at all. I just have to step up.
His wedding and reception were both held at the Danversport Yacht Club. The three of us were
It's just hard to believe that we're already at this "adult" phase of our lives. Weddings? Owning homes? Kids??? Our 5 year college reunion was just this year! Per usual, growing older scares me.
It's one thing to witness others do it, even though it still gets in my head a bit. But then to actually consider these things for myself? It's like a constant freakout. Nothing really changes when you buy a house or when you get married but at the same time everything changes. I've come to the realization that I'll never feel ready for these things even though I actually am and want them.
I've got the house so that's a step. I'm apparently getting a cat next year so that's happening. Plus, I've got this gal who's eagerly awaiting my move. It doesn't really sound scary at all. I just have to step up.
Hawaii
Brig and I took a vacation (just a vacation) to Maui. We were there for a week and it was everything I dreamt it would be. I wanted to keep a running diary of our trip but at the same time I didn't want to interfere with the whole experience of it. So, I used Foursquare to check into the restaurants we went to and then the next week when I was back in the office I re-created notes of our days based around where we had eaten and while my memory was still fresh. I have a Google Doc saved of our week and I would paste it here but I really added every little thing I could think of so it likely won't be of interest to everyone. But I'll try and boil it down to some major happenings.
Saturday:
Super long flight from Boston to Dallas/Fort Worth then to Kahului Airport
Rental unit in Kihei right across the street from the beach
Sunday:
Road to Hana
Lost both our sunglasses by Big Momma waves
Monday:
Surfing lessons
Pool visit
Tuesday:
Haleakala Crater
Iao Needle
Wednesday:
Brig's 26th!
Dinner at renowned Mama's Fish House
Thursday:
Te Au Moana luau
Got lei'd and ate pig roast
Friday:
Drove to Lahaina
Swam with a sea turtle
Saturday:
Spent 4 hours between rental car drop off and flight takeoff at airport bar
Worst flight ever
Well, there you go... Now it's like you were there too! But seriously, go. Just go. You don't need a reason. It's a life changer.
Saturday:
Super long flight from Boston to Dallas/Fort Worth then to Kahului Airport
Rental unit in Kihei right across the street from the beach
Sunday:
Road to Hana
Lost both our sunglasses by Big Momma waves
Monday:
Surfing lessons
Pool visit
Tuesday:
Haleakala Crater
Iao Needle
Wednesday:
Brig's 26th!
Dinner at renowned Mama's Fish House
Thursday:
Te Au Moana luau
Got lei'd and ate pig roast
Friday:
Drove to Lahaina
Swam with a sea turtle
Saturday:
Spent 4 hours between rental car drop off and flight takeoff at airport bar
Worst flight ever
Well, there you go... Now it's like you were there too! But seriously, go. Just go. You don't need a reason. It's a life changer.
The Prodigal Son
So I was told I haven’t blogged in a little while. I think I need to ease my way back into it. Let’s start with what has happened to me since my last post.
I went to Hawaii.
I was in my friend’s wedding.
I went to a Sox game. (Yes, my last post was that long ago.)
I met Brig’s new work friend.
I read a book about Red Sox history and trivia.
I dressed up as Mr. Potato Head & Buzz Lightyear for Halloween (not at the same time).
I saw Ben Gibbard in concert.
I went to a surprise party for my friend’s birthday.
I took Brig to her fave buffet place.
I completed a 5K.
I watched Season 1 of Girls and started Season 2 of Game of Thrones.
I saw Looper & Skyfall.
I went to a Philadelphia suburb to spend Thanksgiving with Brig’s sister and boyfriend.
I started a new job.
Pretty busy couple months, right? I know what you’re thinking: “It’s pretty cool to know what he’s been up to but I want details! I wish he would write a post on each topic.” Well, consider your wish partially granted. I’ll do some picking and choosing and you’ll get further insight on some of my goings-on.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Album Review: Gotye "Making Mirrors"
This album was
released in August of last year so, obviously, this review will be breaking
news. Also, I haven’t reviewed an album since November 2010 so I should be on top of my game. Enjoy!
Gotye came out of literally
nowhere (not literally) with a world changing album (just one song) to top the
charts (until Carly Rae happened). But seriously, the fact that “Somebody That
I Used To Know” was as huge a success as it was really gives me hope for
society. Here are some other 2012 #1 songs: “Sexy and I Know It,” “We Found
Love,” “Call Me Maybe,” and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” While
Taylor Swift used to have some songwriting cred this is pure Max Martin pop
formula so Gotye’s is the only smart, creative, interesting song of the bunch.
When I heard his next
single, “Eyes Wide Open,” it was clear to me he was more than a one-hit wonder.
It was another singable, thoughtful song that was a sort of indie/pop hybrid.
So I was excited to listen to his whole album (even though it took me awhile to
throw on the old headphones and do it). But I came away disappointed.
The first song isn’t a
song. The second song feels like it was placed there because they didn’t want “Somebody…”
too early on the album. “Eyes Wide Open” is right after it then 4-5 weird, way
too poppy for what most people consider “his sound” to be, songs and 3-4 OK
ones to wrap it up. Not really a sterling effort.
Normally, I’d say he’s
still trying to find himself as an artist because he’s new to me (and most
people) but this is actually his third album and he’s been recording/performing
since 2003. He should really embrace the “Somebody…” dynamic because that’s
what he’s (1) successful at and (2) people recognize him as. But the straight
pop stuff does not suit him. Cut that out and this record isn’t half bad.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Untitled (;)
I used to write.
Poetry; songs; what I thought were artistic thoughts. Now I refrain. Why have I
forsaken myself? To say would be to reveal but not too revealing.
‘Tis different now than
‘twas in the late aughts. Empty space now spilling over with movement; action;
direction. Helpful, yes, but hopeful? Pray not.
Do these thoughts
still reside though they receive no time? Or is the act gone entirely? The ability
to do now static. Frozen in time. In words; in song. A by-gone year but a
gone-by talent? Shudder to think.
There! The issue
arises! Thinking is the eye of the storm. To live days doing is a gift but to
live through thought enriches life. It bears a whole new plane and widens
expanses. Suddenly – music; verses – completely surround. ‘Twould be
suffocating if not so pleasureful. Pride in a self-made Wonderland.
The key is to
remember. The feeling; the blueprint. Keeping that is keeping sanity – is keeping
life in all its graces. Keep. Peek. Take the time to look.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Assorted works on a singular topic
Joy Williams “Ill Nature”
There is a little tale about man's fate, and this is the way it is put. A man is being pursued by a raging elephant and takes refuge in a tree at the edge of a fearsome abyss. Two mice, one black and one white, are gnawing at the roots of the tree, and at the bottom of the abyss is a dragon with parted jaws. The man looks above and sees a little honey trickling down the tree, and he begins to lick it up and forgets his perilous situation. But the mice gnaw through the tree and the man falls down and the elephant seizes him and hurls him over to the dragon. Now, that elephant is the image of death, which pursues men, and the tree is this transitory existence, and the mice are the days and the nights, and the honey is the sweetness of the passing world, and the savor of the passing world diverts mankind. So the days and nights are accomplished and death seizes him and the dragon swallows him down into hell and this is the life of man.
There is a little tale about man's fate, and this is the way it is put. A man is being pursued by a raging elephant and takes refuge in a tree at the edge of a fearsome abyss. Two mice, one black and one white, are gnawing at the roots of the tree, and at the bottom of the abyss is a dragon with parted jaws. The man looks above and sees a little honey trickling down the tree, and he begins to lick it up and forgets his perilous situation. But the mice gnaw through the tree and the man falls down and the elephant seizes him and hurls him over to the dragon. Now, that elephant is the image of death, which pursues men, and the tree is this transitory existence, and the mice are the days and the nights, and the honey is the sweetness of the passing world, and the savor of the passing world diverts mankind. So the days and nights are accomplished and death seizes him and the dragon swallows him down into hell and this is the life of man.
William Shakespeare “Macbeth”
Out, out, brief candle!
Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage
And then is heard no more: it is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.
Out, out, brief candle!
Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage
And then is heard no more: it is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.
Pascal “Pensées”
Let us imagine a number of men in chains and all condemned to death, where some are killed each day in the sight of others, and those who remain see their own fate in that of their fellows and wait their turn…. This is the picture of the condition of man.
Allison Barrows “Preteena”
There was an old man who beat his wife;
She stabbed him with a kitchen knife!
He gazed at the red
And woefully said,
“I’m dead! Oh well, that’s life!”
Discuss...
There was an old man who beat his wife;
She stabbed him with a kitchen knife!
He gazed at the red
And woefully said,
“I’m dead! Oh well, that’s life!”
Discuss...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)