I just learned that I grew up in a quintessentially American city. The second most quintessentially American city. At least it was in 2004. At least according to one particular market research study. And there were two other upstate NY cities in the top 5. I learned this from the book Fame Junkies. Thanks,... Continue Reading →
Death by Misadventure
I admittedly don't read much fiction. I'm more drawn to nonfiction...not sure why. But when I read a novel like Under the Volcano, I admonish myself and say, "Self, you should really read more fiction." Under the Volcano by Malcolm Lowry definitely deserves its #11 spot in the Modern Library's top 100 novels list.... Continue Reading →
Literary and Cinematic Update
I finished Nabokov's autobiography. I really enjoyed it. His lyrical writing made my heart flutter. Now, let's talk about Henry James. I have bumbled my way through 30 pages of his Wings of the Dove. As far as I can tell, the characters are talking in circles. But I think I am just not getting... Continue Reading →
Literary Idol
I was in the same room as one of my favorite authors today. Bill Bryson. He spoke at a session at the Boston Book Festival today. Not only do I love his writing, but I wistfully admire that the man has spent a... Continue Reading →
Victorian Boston, Pesto, and Gertrude Stein
Well, I had quite an interesting wrap-up of the birthday list. I toured a historic house in the Back Bay neighborhood yesterday. The house has been preserved rather than restored, so you really feel like you are stepping back in time. Three generations of the Gibson family lived in the house. The one son left... Continue Reading →
fancenance.com 