Adapted from a talk given for Perspective Student Weekend at New College Franklin, Spring 2017 There are times when a song is in my head, or more precisely, part of a song–a refrain which I repeat over and over. No matter how lovely or stirring such a refrain may be, it is imperfect apart from the whole, and … Continue reading Greek is Regular; Greek is Fun: Memory, Science, and the Face of God
There are those who, having groped in the darkness, having searched at the very bounds of hope’s dominion, return with light which lights the darkness for others, which gives hope to the hopeless, faith to those in doubt. Songs like these seem to come from such places: Where Feet May Fail Oceans … Continue reading Light in the Darkness
In the grand tradition of dialogue-performance, which goes back long before the Greek Chorus, we have here the clever sparring of a man and woman. Think of songs like Baby, It’s Cold Outside. One has to believe that the song Tramp and its video are tongue-in-cheek. Tramp portrays that sort of argument it’s impossible to win. “you talk to much” “you’re too defensive” “you’re … Continue reading Justification, Otis Redding Style
We held an informal Arithmetic class at a students home last night. Not only was it a lovely place to watch a movie and talk shop, but it was also a great chance to get to know the freshman a bit better. It is easy to forget how significant a little hospitality can be. An added surprise … Continue reading New College Jam
Same & Other 