Folks. If any of you are still reading this - thanks. I know I've been worse than useless about keeping you updated. The fact is that the internet/library/computer situation only continued long into term time (for which fact I probably owe a significant proportion of my - as yet unknown - marks). Whenever I wasn't in the library I was invariably watching the Big Bang Theory with Leila. Or sometimes Lewis. Or Morse. There was more than one occasion where it got to 11pm and I couldn't sleep - and while I could have got out my pooter and told you all about it, I preferred to retreat to the alternative reality of cinema. I watched a LOT of films at 1am this term. They ranged from the exceedingly silly - Captain America - to the pleasingly frivolous - Water for Elephants - to the absolute classic - The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. As I say, I watched a lot of films.
The first episode of this season's Lewis was exciting - it was filmed in part at Exeter, under the pseudonym 'Carlisle College'. I saw it being filmed last year when I was commuting to Reading but still living in Oxford - as I also saw part of the episode that they filmed on Holywell Street (cycled past that on more than one occasion!). However the excitement of the Exeter - based Lewis episode was the fleeting side shot of our 2011 blades chalking. And the side in view? The side with my name on. Thanks very much. They're currently filming the last ever season of Lewis in Oxford right now. It's odd to think that I won't walk past Laurence Fox or Kevin Whately just randomly again. Unless they're still there when I go back to Oxford for a wedding, and then again for graduation, in July. Probably for the best as my love for James Hathaway has reached unprecedented levels..
So - sorry for not keeping you all up to date with my revision. You would probably have been bored by it anyway. I really enjoyed some parts of it - I did have a bit of a meltdown about 2 weeks in to term, mind - and FINGERS CROSSED I've done as well as other people seem to think I'm going to. Exams were mostly alright. I had a fortune cookie at the end of 5th week that said 'all your hard work will soon pay off'. I'm really hoping that's true. After exams - well, it was throwing it down with rain at mine and Jess' trashing, which was sad. I think I made a bit of a fool of myself at schools dinner with a speech about pineapples but that was because I was drinking away the disappointment of Robin Lane Fox, my tutor and hero, forgetting to turn up. 8th week was fun, if damp - daytimes tended to be quiet but evenings were good. I went to the last Formal and Park End on Wednesday which was absolutely brilliant, because evenings involving Michael (drunk) and cheesy music are really where it's at. Thursday a group of lovely ladies had extravagant cocktails on the roof of the Ashmolean. We didn't shimmy up there illegally, you understand - they've got a rooftop cafe. We also had afternoon tea at the Old Parsonage and we spent Friday drinking champagne in the Botanic Gardens, followed by drinks with RLF and more drinking, ExCac etc. I was very very drunk on Friday. But then it was the last day of term. Lots of people left on the rainy Saturday that followed. I couldn't really believe I was saying goodbye to people for what could be the last time. I still can't, as it happens. I went out to Banbury on Sunday to have lunch with Alison and her husband Jonathon. They're great. I love their house, their attitude, their relationship and their interest in me - it's not like I'm a special case and yet I feel like Alison has taken me under her wing. Despite leaving for Banbury at midday (after a cheeky trip around the Ashmolean) I came back on the last train home.
I had a job interview on Monday of 9th week and had to dash back and get ready for the Leaver's Ball. I naturally drank a considerable amount of wine but had a lovely evening, dancing like a crazy person with Laura and talking to lots of people who I don't know when I'll see again. Hassans on the way back and ensconcement in the MCR courtesy of Tom completed the experience. I also did something which I still can't decide whether it was a responsible thing to do or not. It's possible I may have done harm where I was intending to do good.
Tuesday I met Chris in Uni Parks. It was just like old times. He told me some excellent news - well, gossip, really - about his housemates. It was nice to leave Oxford on that note. And leave it I did - on the X5, with my poor abused bike and all my remaining worldly goods. Bye bye Oxford.
I've been back in Cambridge just over a week, now. Mostly I'm on call for making my mum cups of tea and accompanying her on car journeys so I can take over if she gets tired (she's recovering from surgery she had over my exams). I've done a lot of baking and applying for jobs - I didn't get the school one - and I think I might try and spend some time in Israel this coming year. I've also bought a bikini (my first one) and a gorgeous dress for the wedding.
Funny what people consider newsworthy, isn't it?
The wait for results continues. I don't know whether I'll post them in a blog. Seems a bit .. self-publicising? I guess that's what a blog is, but still. Anyway. I'll know in a week. Til then...
Thursday, 28 June 2012
Sunday, 6 May 2012
T-2 weeks
Ladies and gentlespoons. Sorry it's been a while. I've been, y'know, working. I tactically chose not to put VPN on my new laptop so I can't use the internet (and thus facebook, twitter etc) in the library, which means that all my internet time is restricted to my room and inevitably consists of watching crappy television or light relief or ogling other people having lives via social media. My first priority has not been to keep you all informed about what I'm doing, because for the vast majority of you, what I'm doing holds no interest. I fricking love it (mostly). But I'm not going to bound to my room every evening, laptop in hand, to tell you that there is a reference to Athenian naval symmories in Philochorus fragment 328 f41. Or that Catullus 64 is a direct influence on Virgil's 4th Eclogue. Or that there actually wasn't a conspiracy being formed in Germany in Gaius Caligula's rule. I could, but I choose (largely) not to.
Why have you come crawling back now? I hear you cry. Well, I guess I never really intended to put my blog to one side, I just always found other things to do. I would frequently remember about blogging in the library and then forget on the long (I jest) walk back to my room. I've just been faffing about on the internet this evening because I don't know whether to accept that I won't be able to sleep and watch a long-ish movie, or whether I should watch something shorter and thus get to bed earlier. This is a standard dilemma. I've been sleeping approximately 5-6 hours a night. Not through choice, you understand. I lie awake til 1ish and wake up around 7 whether I want to or not. I tend to be ready to hit the library by the time my alarm goes off. My eyes are tired and my head aches (although that might be because I have a permanent semi-frown). Moany moany. I should mention that the other reason for picking up a blog is so that I can complain in a general way about all the things I want to complain about, but which aren't fair to do so because everyone here is going through the same thing. I can't even complain to my parents at the moment because my mum is about to go into hospital for an operation and as she rather brusquely told me today, 'the world doesn't stop just because you have exams'. GAAAAH I know that! I was in such a miff when she then told me she was going to watch a movie that I didn't tell her about all the various slightly-less-exam-related things I was going to tell her, put the phone down and cried. That's not necessarily a reflection on her - everything is making me cry at the moment - but still.
If I can't have a mope to my own mother, who am I supposed to go to? I just want hugs. I literally want a shoulder to cry on. And I want my mum to realise that I'm trying really really hard not to be selfish and that I'm worried about her and this really isn't helping. Also it's all very well saying 'exams' and 'you'll be fine' and 'of course we'll be happy if you get a 2.1' and 'just do the best you can do' but none of this is really helpful or to the purpose or even a little bit comforting. I know my parents think I'm going to waltz straight to a first without even blinking. Or at least, I know that this is what they want to think. And while I want to do as well as I can for me, there is a very strong element of the 'hilarious' comments they used to make when I would bring home, eg, my year 9 school exam results. 'Only 94%? Why didn't you get 100%?'. Comedy gold. Not.
Also my roommate, bless her, came in this evening and said '14 hours in the library. That's alright, isn't it?'. Well. I mean. How am I possibly supposed to feel like I'm doing enough when I am living with such a driven, efficient demon of a worker?
More things to moan about: I think the fresher living below me has a new girlfriend. This is not cool. It's also really embarrassing to deal with. Also, I need to find a commoner's gown between now and 20th May, and probably also a new velvet ribbon because I never cleaned my old one and it's a bit crusty after my Mods trashing (nb - trashing - people throw things over you after you have finished your exams. Cathartic. Occasionally unpleasant. Made up for with immediate presentation of booze and lots of cheering. Source of great excitement among finalists). Also also, I still haven't got even the merest whiff of a job. And finally, CAN THEY JUST BE OVER ALREADY.
That is all. I may post again. I may not. Nos morituri, etc etc.
Why have you come crawling back now? I hear you cry. Well, I guess I never really intended to put my blog to one side, I just always found other things to do. I would frequently remember about blogging in the library and then forget on the long (I jest) walk back to my room. I've just been faffing about on the internet this evening because I don't know whether to accept that I won't be able to sleep and watch a long-ish movie, or whether I should watch something shorter and thus get to bed earlier. This is a standard dilemma. I've been sleeping approximately 5-6 hours a night. Not through choice, you understand. I lie awake til 1ish and wake up around 7 whether I want to or not. I tend to be ready to hit the library by the time my alarm goes off. My eyes are tired and my head aches (although that might be because I have a permanent semi-frown). Moany moany. I should mention that the other reason for picking up a blog is so that I can complain in a general way about all the things I want to complain about, but which aren't fair to do so because everyone here is going through the same thing. I can't even complain to my parents at the moment because my mum is about to go into hospital for an operation and as she rather brusquely told me today, 'the world doesn't stop just because you have exams'. GAAAAH I know that! I was in such a miff when she then told me she was going to watch a movie that I didn't tell her about all the various slightly-less-exam-related things I was going to tell her, put the phone down and cried. That's not necessarily a reflection on her - everything is making me cry at the moment - but still.
If I can't have a mope to my own mother, who am I supposed to go to? I just want hugs. I literally want a shoulder to cry on. And I want my mum to realise that I'm trying really really hard not to be selfish and that I'm worried about her and this really isn't helping. Also it's all very well saying 'exams' and 'you'll be fine' and 'of course we'll be happy if you get a 2.1' and 'just do the best you can do' but none of this is really helpful or to the purpose or even a little bit comforting. I know my parents think I'm going to waltz straight to a first without even blinking. Or at least, I know that this is what they want to think. And while I want to do as well as I can for me, there is a very strong element of the 'hilarious' comments they used to make when I would bring home, eg, my year 9 school exam results. 'Only 94%? Why didn't you get 100%?'. Comedy gold. Not.
Also my roommate, bless her, came in this evening and said '14 hours in the library. That's alright, isn't it?'. Well. I mean. How am I possibly supposed to feel like I'm doing enough when I am living with such a driven, efficient demon of a worker?
More things to moan about: I think the fresher living below me has a new girlfriend. This is not cool. It's also really embarrassing to deal with. Also, I need to find a commoner's gown between now and 20th May, and probably also a new velvet ribbon because I never cleaned my old one and it's a bit crusty after my Mods trashing (nb - trashing - people throw things over you after you have finished your exams. Cathartic. Occasionally unpleasant. Made up for with immediate presentation of booze and lots of cheering. Source of great excitement among finalists). Also also, I still haven't got even the merest whiff of a job. And finally, CAN THEY JUST BE OVER ALREADY.
That is all. I may post again. I may not. Nos morituri, etc etc.
Monday, 16 April 2012
nyuuurrrghhh
Hullo chaps. It's been a very long day in the library. 8.45 til 8.45, in fact. Jeez, I didn't even realise I'd been there that long til I wrote that down. Don't worry, I took some breaks. If I'd stayed there unmoving for that long I would probably have frozen to that spot. Not because it's cold in the library, mind. Apart from the slightly odd breeze, it's usually pretty snuggly - I'm next to a radiator and a window, so temperature regulation is pretty easy game. No, I would probably freeze in place in that I would be rendered incapable of moving my limbs. Turned to stone, if you will. I frequently realise when I'm working that my shoulders are up around my ears and really sore. As in, to the extent that I try and relax them and think I have and then realise they can actually sink another inch or three. And then I have a beautiful moment of tension-free relaxation and minutes later I am back to being Mrs Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Alas.
This is on my mind slightly because I rang the physio department today to book an appointment, like I was told I should at my last one, and apparently I've left it too long and can't get one without being referred back again by my GP. WHY. WHY? and thrice WHY, I ask you? Why is it necessary for all this to-ing and fro-ing? Why can't at least one aspect of my existence be rendered marginally less stressful?
Anyway. It's been a long day (another one of those dreams where I dreamed I woke up really late and then *actually* woke up and it was 6.45am) and this just tipped me over the edge a bit, so I've been super grumpy all afternoon (apart from a much - needed injection of hilarity by the arrival of Rachel. I <3 that girl). Buuuuut now I'm simultaneously writing a blog, 'helping' Leila internet shop and also listening to her hilariously politically incorrect but very economically sound ideas about jobs. And also watching her try on her shawl, which she's currently getting tied up in. I have missed sharing a room.
Anyway, I'm feeling more cheerful about life now. It's not all bad. G'nighty!
Alas.
This is on my mind slightly because I rang the physio department today to book an appointment, like I was told I should at my last one, and apparently I've left it too long and can't get one without being referred back again by my GP. WHY. WHY? and thrice WHY, I ask you? Why is it necessary for all this to-ing and fro-ing? Why can't at least one aspect of my existence be rendered marginally less stressful?
Anyway. It's been a long day (another one of those dreams where I dreamed I woke up really late and then *actually* woke up and it was 6.45am) and this just tipped me over the edge a bit, so I've been super grumpy all afternoon (apart from a much - needed injection of hilarity by the arrival of Rachel. I <3 that girl). Buuuuut now I'm simultaneously writing a blog, 'helping' Leila internet shop and also listening to her hilariously politically incorrect but very economically sound ideas about jobs. And also watching her try on her shawl, which she's currently getting tied up in. I have missed sharing a room.
Anyway, I'm feeling more cheerful about life now. It's not all bad. G'nighty!
Thursday, 12 April 2012
not sure what day it is, let alone how many days I've been blogging...
Hello lovely people. Sorry for my prolonged absence. I am back and communicating with you from my shiny new laptop, which my pa bought for me at great expense (I have to pay him back, obvs) because my old one may conk out at any second, taking all my Finals revision + work with it. Which would be a disaster. Not that I haven't backed up pretty much everything about a zillion times, but still. I would probably have a cardiac arrest on the spot so it wouldn't be much use anyway.
I'm not sure how long I've been away and therefore what you've missed, but basically, since I got back to Oxford (yup, I'm back now) I've pretty much just been living it large in the library, booyeah. I remembered to pick up my own thermos before I left home so I have been taking that in with me, more or less blatantly depending on how rebellious I'm feeling and whether the librarian looks like they might care. I've also triumphantly reclaimed my former spot (on the corner closest to the window on the second desk from the door) so library banter with Jess and Becky continues apace. Also, it's -1st week. When did this happen?! How is it suddenly nearly term time? OH GOD. Slightly excessive amounts of time off (or possibly implausible expectations about doing work at home) have meant that I am a leetle behind on my work schedule but I'm unsure what to do about this. I feel like I'm better served absolutely nailing some phenomenal, all-encompassing notes for my Greek history topic (which is huge and involves lots of itty-bitty details as well as enormous amounts of general understanding) rather than doing a half-arsed job on that and then moving on to other stuff to get it all done... but the problem is that unless I formulate a solid plan, I'll just keep spinning out Greek history and won't look at the other 2 - no, shoot, 3 papers I still have left to look at. Shiiiiiiit. No, it's ok. Two of those topics I revised pretty solidly over Christmas. I've still got time. Yup. Yup. Keep telling yourself that. NOW I'M TALKING TO MYSELF.
Sorry.
In other news, my mouth hurts. Paracetamol and bonjela are simultaneously saving the day. I think I have a wisdom tooth coming through because my jaw ACHES, but I've thought that before and been wrong, so maybe my jaw just aches because it wants to. Also my ear hurts. And my tongue, where I have some naaaassty ulcers (TMI?) which may be stress-related but may also be to do with the fact that my jaw doesn't seem to be aligning properly and in my mouth's natural resting position my tongue is effectively being constantly bitten. Niiiice. And this is of course matzah-only season, so I can't even eat nice squishy bread type things but have to consume crunchy, crackery things only, which is deffo not helping. Sadface.
Anyway. Rant over on that front, for now. I should probably go to bed soon, because I've got a whole day of deciphering Robin Lane Fox's insane handwriting and lecture handouts ahead of me tomorrow. What day is tomorrow again? Oh. Friday 13th. Sounds ominous.
If I'm not eaten by giant killer rats erupting from beneath the library floorboards, I'll blog again soon.
I'm not sure how long I've been away and therefore what you've missed, but basically, since I got back to Oxford (yup, I'm back now) I've pretty much just been living it large in the library, booyeah. I remembered to pick up my own thermos before I left home so I have been taking that in with me, more or less blatantly depending on how rebellious I'm feeling and whether the librarian looks like they might care. I've also triumphantly reclaimed my former spot (on the corner closest to the window on the second desk from the door) so library banter with Jess and Becky continues apace. Also, it's -1st week. When did this happen?! How is it suddenly nearly term time? OH GOD. Slightly excessive amounts of time off (or possibly implausible expectations about doing work at home) have meant that I am a leetle behind on my work schedule but I'm unsure what to do about this. I feel like I'm better served absolutely nailing some phenomenal, all-encompassing notes for my Greek history topic (which is huge and involves lots of itty-bitty details as well as enormous amounts of general understanding) rather than doing a half-arsed job on that and then moving on to other stuff to get it all done... but the problem is that unless I formulate a solid plan, I'll just keep spinning out Greek history and won't look at the other 2 - no, shoot, 3 papers I still have left to look at. Shiiiiiiit. No, it's ok. Two of those topics I revised pretty solidly over Christmas. I've still got time. Yup. Yup. Keep telling yourself that. NOW I'M TALKING TO MYSELF.
Sorry.
In other news, my mouth hurts. Paracetamol and bonjela are simultaneously saving the day. I think I have a wisdom tooth coming through because my jaw ACHES, but I've thought that before and been wrong, so maybe my jaw just aches because it wants to. Also my ear hurts. And my tongue, where I have some naaaassty ulcers (TMI?) which may be stress-related but may also be to do with the fact that my jaw doesn't seem to be aligning properly and in my mouth's natural resting position my tongue is effectively being constantly bitten. Niiiice. And this is of course matzah-only season, so I can't even eat nice squishy bread type things but have to consume crunchy, crackery things only, which is deffo not helping. Sadface.
Anyway. Rant over on that front, for now. I should probably go to bed soon, because I've got a whole day of deciphering Robin Lane Fox's insane handwriting and lecture handouts ahead of me tomorrow. What day is tomorrow again? Oh. Friday 13th. Sounds ominous.
If I'm not eaten by giant killer rats erupting from beneath the library floorboards, I'll blog again soon.
Saturday, 7 April 2012
158 years of 'elitism'
Today my facebook and twitter feeds have been filled with Boat Race related chat. Given that I study at Oxford and live in Cambridge, and today is the day of the yearly racing clash, I would have confidently predicted this outcome. But I would never have predicted what everyone is talking about.
Today the boat race had to be restarted because a swimmer appeared just a short distance away from the Oxford boat, narrowly missing having his head taken off by a blade swooshing past him. After the restart, the Oxford boat crashed into the Cambridge one and the 6-man broke his blade. Oxford crossed the line 7 lengths behind Cambridge and their bowman ended up being carted away in an ambulance. Despite initial celebrations from Cambridge, probably before they realised how ill Oxford's bow was, presentation of trophies and so on was delayed and the ceremony was fairly sober. Both teams were clearly shaken by the restart and its effects.
It emerged after the medical emergency was over that the swimmer's name was Trenton Oldfield. He has a page. It has been doing the rounds of the social media sites. It's difficult to know where to begin, really.
One could say this man is a hypocrite. He too has benefited from the privileged education he accuses the 'elite' of having. He went to a good university. He has a membership of the Royal Society of Arts. He sounds like someone with an enormous chip on his shoulder. One could add that this education doesn't seem to have done much for him. His page is poorly spelled, riddled with grammatical errors and reads breathlessly and incoherently. His 'examples from history' are selective and miss out some pretty crucial ones. I'm biased, obviously, but I think 5th century Athens is a pretty good example he could have picked to demonstrate the overthrow of tyranny by the people.
The problem here is that many people are only picking up on the fact that he appears to be a hypocrite. We should consider that one can choose to use the system in order to empower oneself to fight it later on. But we should also consider how he has chosen to express his disgust at 'the elite'. He has disrupted a sporting event which he avows no-one who is not a part of that scene watches or has any interest in. He has ruined the culminating moment of months, possibly years of training for around twenty people. I doubt he could tell you the backgrounds of all the participants in the boat race. He has screwed something up that has small relevance to what he is protesting about. There are a lot of miserable athletes in London at the moment because of him. No-one's impressed at a football match when there's a pitch invasion that stops play - why should things be taken any less seriously in this case?
Yes, it was a stunt, and stunts are designed to attract attention and comment. Many people do feel that Oxbridge gets undeserved attention and that it is populated by toffs and the privileged. But this is a vicious cycle, and it's also symptomatic of the British inability to feel good about anything we do well. We have some of the best universities in the world and instead of celebrating them and encouraging ALL capable students to aim for them, we set them up (and we are all, as a nation, guilty of doing this to some extent) on a pedestal. Anyone who gets into them is derided by those that didn't make it and welcomed by those that did. Immediately a conflict is created and because of this deep-seated desire to widen the breach, people fall into the stereotypes that the divide creates. These stereotypes get names like 'the elite' and 'the people'. What about the boundary-breakers, the state-school kids that slave away and apply to Oxford thinking they won't get in, but do, and go, and enjoy it? Well, to begin with, they are celebrated for the way they beat the elites at their own game. But in time they too are derided for becoming traitors to the group from which they came. When they realise they've been rejected by one group, they throw themselves whole-heartedly into the other. And stunts like this one only reinforce the divide. The interested world is currently split into people who are outraged at the stunt, bemoaning the stupidity of the protest and commiserating with the disappointed athletes, and people who are celebrating it.
The Iron Law of Oligarchy states that the more complicated a state/system of government, the more likely it is that it will end up, sooner or later, being run by a small (probably elite) group. However, this Iron Law seems to have one exception - truly democratic Athens. Athens worked because although there were class and wealth distinctions, everyone had to listen to everyone else, and everyone was just as informed as everyone else. There was equality of interest and equality of knowledge. If we all choose to become truly involved, instead of just latching on to generalisations and stereotypes, we will be able to put aside our mistrust of each other. Apathy and ignorance breed resentment and decline. We have to stop seeing 'sides' and we have to be cautious of labels like 'hypocrite'. Everyone who wants knowledge must be encouraged to seek it. It is so readily available! Seize it! And seize the day!
Today the boat race had to be restarted because a swimmer appeared just a short distance away from the Oxford boat, narrowly missing having his head taken off by a blade swooshing past him. After the restart, the Oxford boat crashed into the Cambridge one and the 6-man broke his blade. Oxford crossed the line 7 lengths behind Cambridge and their bowman ended up being carted away in an ambulance. Despite initial celebrations from Cambridge, probably before they realised how ill Oxford's bow was, presentation of trophies and so on was delayed and the ceremony was fairly sober. Both teams were clearly shaken by the restart and its effects.
It emerged after the medical emergency was over that the swimmer's name was Trenton Oldfield. He has a page. It has been doing the rounds of the social media sites. It's difficult to know where to begin, really.
One could say this man is a hypocrite. He too has benefited from the privileged education he accuses the 'elite' of having. He went to a good university. He has a membership of the Royal Society of Arts. He sounds like someone with an enormous chip on his shoulder. One could add that this education doesn't seem to have done much for him. His page is poorly spelled, riddled with grammatical errors and reads breathlessly and incoherently. His 'examples from history' are selective and miss out some pretty crucial ones. I'm biased, obviously, but I think 5th century Athens is a pretty good example he could have picked to demonstrate the overthrow of tyranny by the people.
The problem here is that many people are only picking up on the fact that he appears to be a hypocrite. We should consider that one can choose to use the system in order to empower oneself to fight it later on. But we should also consider how he has chosen to express his disgust at 'the elite'. He has disrupted a sporting event which he avows no-one who is not a part of that scene watches or has any interest in. He has ruined the culminating moment of months, possibly years of training for around twenty people. I doubt he could tell you the backgrounds of all the participants in the boat race. He has screwed something up that has small relevance to what he is protesting about. There are a lot of miserable athletes in London at the moment because of him. No-one's impressed at a football match when there's a pitch invasion that stops play - why should things be taken any less seriously in this case?
Yes, it was a stunt, and stunts are designed to attract attention and comment. Many people do feel that Oxbridge gets undeserved attention and that it is populated by toffs and the privileged. But this is a vicious cycle, and it's also symptomatic of the British inability to feel good about anything we do well. We have some of the best universities in the world and instead of celebrating them and encouraging ALL capable students to aim for them, we set them up (and we are all, as a nation, guilty of doing this to some extent) on a pedestal. Anyone who gets into them is derided by those that didn't make it and welcomed by those that did. Immediately a conflict is created and because of this deep-seated desire to widen the breach, people fall into the stereotypes that the divide creates. These stereotypes get names like 'the elite' and 'the people'. What about the boundary-breakers, the state-school kids that slave away and apply to Oxford thinking they won't get in, but do, and go, and enjoy it? Well, to begin with, they are celebrated for the way they beat the elites at their own game. But in time they too are derided for becoming traitors to the group from which they came. When they realise they've been rejected by one group, they throw themselves whole-heartedly into the other. And stunts like this one only reinforce the divide. The interested world is currently split into people who are outraged at the stunt, bemoaning the stupidity of the protest and commiserating with the disappointed athletes, and people who are celebrating it.
The Iron Law of Oligarchy states that the more complicated a state/system of government, the more likely it is that it will end up, sooner or later, being run by a small (probably elite) group. However, this Iron Law seems to have one exception - truly democratic Athens. Athens worked because although there were class and wealth distinctions, everyone had to listen to everyone else, and everyone was just as informed as everyone else. There was equality of interest and equality of knowledge. If we all choose to become truly involved, instead of just latching on to generalisations and stereotypes, we will be able to put aside our mistrust of each other. Apathy and ignorance breed resentment and decline. We have to stop seeing 'sides' and we have to be cautious of labels like 'hypocrite'. Everyone who wants knowledge must be encouraged to seek it. It is so readily available! Seize it! And seize the day!
Thursday, 5 April 2012
Day 23 - review of the week so far
Greetings all. Today is my parents' 25th wedding anniversary. Happy days for them. They are celebrating in Jerusalem and then heading to Tel Aviv in time for the first night of Passover, which starts tomorrow. I am back from Scotland and as predicted have spent the morning sorting out washing and whatnot. I am hoping that even if mother returns and isn't impressed with the standard of cleanliness in the house (that's what we'll be sorting on Sunday) she will at least forgive me for having washed, dried and ironed EVERYTHING.
Scotland was lovely visit-wise. Travel-wise it was a nightmare. I am never letting anyone book travel arrangements on my behalf ever again. Spent hours and hours and hours at Luton airport on Sunday afternoon and had a similarly late, delayed and stressful journey home last night. The bit in the middle was great, though. I've probably eaten more this week than I have any other week this term, and it's only Thursday... was lovely to see the family - cousins that I haven't encountered for a looong time and uncles and aunts that I haven't seen in nearly as long. Everyone's so big and grown up now, bless. Ray (computer genius uncle) tried everything with my computer but he reckons it's pretty much knackered. While this is not ideal news, I do now have an expert corroborator so I can tell my parents it is imperative that I obtain a new laptop. AND he copied I, Claudius for me (and also many seasons of The Big Bang Theory, which may become my 30 Rock). I had proper Scottish smoked salmon from the oldest smokehouse in Scotland, and superfresh fish and chips from Peterhead, and homemade scotch pancakes made by a real Scottish person (my aunt), and was generally pampered and thoroughly overfed. I also played many many games of jumbo bananagrams and other bizarre games like 'Munchkin' and 'Whoonu'. Aaaaah, families. AND we went for a walk on the beach (despite hail, snow, high winds and freezing temperatures) and climbed all over the dunes. Booyeah.
On a less cheerful note, exam timetables were released and the only thing I like about mine is that I finish with Jess on Thursday of 7th week, in plenty of time for Kathleen's graduation that Saturday and allowing sufficient opportunity to enjoy 8th week. Apart from that it is vile. Uuuuuuugh. Why have four days of exams one after the other and then two more exams a week apart? WHY?! Grumble, moan etc. Still. I am hoping that as my last two papers are translation ones I will be able to ace them since I will have nothing to do except read Tacitus for a week. Hooray.
Right. I need to plan some menus, read the Republic and write a job application before Emily gets here tonight. Ambitious? I think so. Later, 'gators xx
Scotland was lovely visit-wise. Travel-wise it was a nightmare. I am never letting anyone book travel arrangements on my behalf ever again. Spent hours and hours and hours at Luton airport on Sunday afternoon and had a similarly late, delayed and stressful journey home last night. The bit in the middle was great, though. I've probably eaten more this week than I have any other week this term, and it's only Thursday... was lovely to see the family - cousins that I haven't encountered for a looong time and uncles and aunts that I haven't seen in nearly as long. Everyone's so big and grown up now, bless. Ray (computer genius uncle) tried everything with my computer but he reckons it's pretty much knackered. While this is not ideal news, I do now have an expert corroborator so I can tell my parents it is imperative that I obtain a new laptop. AND he copied I, Claudius for me (and also many seasons of The Big Bang Theory, which may become my 30 Rock). I had proper Scottish smoked salmon from the oldest smokehouse in Scotland, and superfresh fish and chips from Peterhead, and homemade scotch pancakes made by a real Scottish person (my aunt), and was generally pampered and thoroughly overfed. I also played many many games of jumbo bananagrams and other bizarre games like 'Munchkin' and 'Whoonu'. Aaaaah, families. AND we went for a walk on the beach (despite hail, snow, high winds and freezing temperatures) and climbed all over the dunes. Booyeah.
On a less cheerful note, exam timetables were released and the only thing I like about mine is that I finish with Jess on Thursday of 7th week, in plenty of time for Kathleen's graduation that Saturday and allowing sufficient opportunity to enjoy 8th week. Apart from that it is vile. Uuuuuuugh. Why have four days of exams one after the other and then two more exams a week apart? WHY?! Grumble, moan etc. Still. I am hoping that as my last two papers are translation ones I will be able to ace them since I will have nothing to do except read Tacitus for a week. Hooray.
Right. I need to plan some menus, read the Republic and write a job application before Emily gets here tonight. Ambitious? I think so. Later, 'gators xx
Sunday, 1 April 2012
April Fool
Jetting off (lol) to Scotland this afternoon for a few days with the highland clan. Meanwhile, the parents are on a plane to Israel. Their top predicted temperature - 36degrees. Ours - 6. Nice. My sister (age 15) told me her bag was really heavy because of all the revision stuff she's bringing on the plane. Incredulous, I asked what on earth she was revising for. She said indignantly, 'I've got an RE exam on May 15th'. I said 'that's when my Finals start. I absolutely refuse to allow you to bring revision with you on a holiday where I am expressly not allowed to take any revision'. She's in a bit of a huff with me but seriously, I'm not going to be made to feel guilty by my teenage sister who thinks (at the moment, at least) that GCSEs are the be-all and end-all. So there.
I know I've missed two days of blogging and that's really naughty but srsly, how many of you noticed? Probs not many. On Thursday eve I had a bit of a crisis about my life and panicked when I realised I didn't know who to call. I think I'm just in a low place at the moment because just about everything is making me cry, and it's compounded by the fact that I'm at home and not surrounded by people in the same position as me in Oxford. I really really needed to get away from work but home does not exactly feel the relaxing and supportive environment I could wish for at the moment.
Friday was nice, because we had a family day out in London when pretty much everyone was on their best behaviour for most of the time. My dad was (finally) graduating from his Open University degree course. We were scanning the programme beforehand and realised that of the two people receiving honorary degrees that day, one of them was ANNIE LENNOX no less. So obviously my dad was smug as a smug person because he shook her hand as well as the chancellor's when he collected his certificate. We also did a bit of shopping around Seven Dials (I took my mum and sister into Fatface to show them a pair of shorts I had tried on and really liked, and they proceeded to try them on also and then buy them for themselves. Goddamit) and had dinner out.
Saturday I was basically left to my own devices all day because clearly, the horse must come first. I know my mum would say 'schedules don't change just because you're back' buuuuut... they should. Just this once. So I baked and sorted washing and ironed and packed and eventually the rest of the family deigned to show up, whereupon they all had to pack and so on and so forth. We did all eat together I guess, but what a waste of a day at home. I didn't leave the house once. Moan moan moan. I know, get a grip, people have bigger problems etc. I think my parents have chosen to forget the massive paddy I threw when they said they were planning to go away this week and I pointed out that was the week I had planned to come home. I don't think they have twigged that the reason I want to come home is to see them, not to bake or sleep in my own bed or wash clothes for free. They aren't getting back from Israel until Sunday evening, but if I were to go back to Oxford before they get back I would be in trouble, I just know it. Gaaaaah. If I'd not taken this time off I could have had a whole extra day for every paper and still slotted in days off in between. They're just absolutely clueless. They don't even want to hear explanations. Chilling out is not an option. They think I can breeze through my exams and get a first without even trying, and that even if I don't then it doesn't matter.
Uuuuuugghhh. I don't know when I'll next be online. I'm taking my laptop up to Scotland but only because it's knackered and my uncle is a computer whizz. He might fix it, or he might tell me it can't be saved. I'm really hoping it's the former.
Til then, ave atque vale.
I know I've missed two days of blogging and that's really naughty but srsly, how many of you noticed? Probs not many. On Thursday eve I had a bit of a crisis about my life and panicked when I realised I didn't know who to call. I think I'm just in a low place at the moment because just about everything is making me cry, and it's compounded by the fact that I'm at home and not surrounded by people in the same position as me in Oxford. I really really needed to get away from work but home does not exactly feel the relaxing and supportive environment I could wish for at the moment.
Friday was nice, because we had a family day out in London when pretty much everyone was on their best behaviour for most of the time. My dad was (finally) graduating from his Open University degree course. We were scanning the programme beforehand and realised that of the two people receiving honorary degrees that day, one of them was ANNIE LENNOX no less. So obviously my dad was smug as a smug person because he shook her hand as well as the chancellor's when he collected his certificate. We also did a bit of shopping around Seven Dials (I took my mum and sister into Fatface to show them a pair of shorts I had tried on and really liked, and they proceeded to try them on also and then buy them for themselves. Goddamit) and had dinner out.
Saturday I was basically left to my own devices all day because clearly, the horse must come first. I know my mum would say 'schedules don't change just because you're back' buuuuut... they should. Just this once. So I baked and sorted washing and ironed and packed and eventually the rest of the family deigned to show up, whereupon they all had to pack and so on and so forth. We did all eat together I guess, but what a waste of a day at home. I didn't leave the house once. Moan moan moan. I know, get a grip, people have bigger problems etc. I think my parents have chosen to forget the massive paddy I threw when they said they were planning to go away this week and I pointed out that was the week I had planned to come home. I don't think they have twigged that the reason I want to come home is to see them, not to bake or sleep in my own bed or wash clothes for free. They aren't getting back from Israel until Sunday evening, but if I were to go back to Oxford before they get back I would be in trouble, I just know it. Gaaaaah. If I'd not taken this time off I could have had a whole extra day for every paper and still slotted in days off in between. They're just absolutely clueless. They don't even want to hear explanations. Chilling out is not an option. They think I can breeze through my exams and get a first without even trying, and that even if I don't then it doesn't matter.
Uuuuuugghhh. I don't know when I'll next be online. I'm taking my laptop up to Scotland but only because it's knackered and my uncle is a computer whizz. He might fix it, or he might tell me it can't be saved. I'm really hoping it's the former.
Til then, ave atque vale.
Thursday, 29 March 2012
Day 17 + HOMETIME
Ladies and Gentlespoons, I had hoped that I would be too busy like, talking to my family and being welcomed home n'shit to blog to you all today, but alas, this is not the case. I am sat on my bed in my room. My brother is sat at his computer in his room. My father is sat at his computer in the kitchen. And my mother is bustling about in a grump because no-one is capable of doing anything without full written instructions, and she has a poorly horse. (My sister has gone to bed, so, y'know, that's ok).
I spent the morning in the library - got there at 8.45, a PB. I feel like I haven't actually done that much of use but I have done a lot of consolidating, and tbh I'm not toooo worried about my Roman history. I think I can devote a bit of time to it in Trinity and really nail it then. I do really need to look at Caesar though. Hmmmm. Becky turned up and we had a whispered angry conversation about Christian Concern and how we disagree with them. They were making video testimonials all day today. I find it quite upsetting that there are going to be sweeping shots of college and so on in these things. They make it look like the place is theirs when it isn't. Ugh. There's a 'diversity' party happening tonight in the MCR but as Andrew said, it's a bit of a joke - people are turning up to support the cause now that's its become a drinking opportunity, but when it was meetings, and when it counted, nobody gave two flying rats' arses.
Apparently the Rector was in Japan recently when a sign blew down in the wind and fell across her face, taking the tip of her nose off. Now that's sad and I hope she is all right, but I am choosing to consider this karmically significant and I feel vindicated. Here endeth *that* lesson.
Had a beautiful sunny lunch on the quad with Andrew, Adam and Jean-Michel, who has turned up just in time for me to go away. Adam bought Ben + Jerry's (HALF PRICE WIN) which made it even better. Also I deliberately sat on the floor and in the way so the Christians would have to walk round me to get to lunch. Small gestures.
I managed to make myself stay in the library til about half 2, and then I packed up my stuff and lugged my (enormous) suitcase to Gloucester Green. 3+ hours on the X5 (and a bit of tomfoolery from my inept but lovable -mostly- brother) later, I arrived home. More tomfoolery and ineptitude was in evidence and we didn't eat til nearly 8pm. The day was saved because when we did eat, it was fishballs. YES.
Typically, there was no duvet on my bed. I mean, I know I have taken my duvet to Ox. But we do have spares, and I did remind my mum several days ago. Her reasoning was that she had planned to sort it out yesterday but then her horse had got ill so she had to go straight out, and she forgot to tell the boys to do it today because she was running late, and they are too useless to think of it themselves. Oh, and she was out this evening because she had to go see her horse and then go to a lecture on horses. And then *I* get into trouble because I took both my duvet covers to Oxford with me, so I can, you know, wash them and stuff, but I only own two and therefore *another one, good lord, how is that reasonable* has to be found and that's somehow my fault. Anyway. It's all sorted now. But what a bloody palaver. It is sad and stressful that horsey is ill. But I have only come home for a bit, my parents are going to be away for most of it, and I would like some attention, please. Please?
I spent the morning in the library - got there at 8.45, a PB. I feel like I haven't actually done that much of use but I have done a lot of consolidating, and tbh I'm not toooo worried about my Roman history. I think I can devote a bit of time to it in Trinity and really nail it then. I do really need to look at Caesar though. Hmmmm. Becky turned up and we had a whispered angry conversation about Christian Concern and how we disagree with them. They were making video testimonials all day today. I find it quite upsetting that there are going to be sweeping shots of college and so on in these things. They make it look like the place is theirs when it isn't. Ugh. There's a 'diversity' party happening tonight in the MCR but as Andrew said, it's a bit of a joke - people are turning up to support the cause now that's its become a drinking opportunity, but when it was meetings, and when it counted, nobody gave two flying rats' arses.
Apparently the Rector was in Japan recently when a sign blew down in the wind and fell across her face, taking the tip of her nose off. Now that's sad and I hope she is all right, but I am choosing to consider this karmically significant and I feel vindicated. Here endeth *that* lesson.
Had a beautiful sunny lunch on the quad with Andrew, Adam and Jean-Michel, who has turned up just in time for me to go away. Adam bought Ben + Jerry's (HALF PRICE WIN) which made it even better. Also I deliberately sat on the floor and in the way so the Christians would have to walk round me to get to lunch. Small gestures.
I managed to make myself stay in the library til about half 2, and then I packed up my stuff and lugged my (enormous) suitcase to Gloucester Green. 3+ hours on the X5 (and a bit of tomfoolery from my inept but lovable -mostly- brother) later, I arrived home. More tomfoolery and ineptitude was in evidence and we didn't eat til nearly 8pm. The day was saved because when we did eat, it was fishballs. YES.
Typically, there was no duvet on my bed. I mean, I know I have taken my duvet to Ox. But we do have spares, and I did remind my mum several days ago. Her reasoning was that she had planned to sort it out yesterday but then her horse had got ill so she had to go straight out, and she forgot to tell the boys to do it today because she was running late, and they are too useless to think of it themselves. Oh, and she was out this evening because she had to go see her horse and then go to a lecture on horses. And then *I* get into trouble because I took both my duvet covers to Oxford with me, so I can, you know, wash them and stuff, but I only own two and therefore *another one, good lord, how is that reasonable* has to be found and that's somehow my fault. Anyway. It's all sorted now. But what a bloody palaver. It is sad and stressful that horsey is ill. But I have only come home for a bit, my parents are going to be away for most of it, and I would like some attention, please. Please?
Wednesday, 28 March 2012
Day XVI
Failed at blogging yesterday as I inadvertently got quite drunk. Soz, all. Didn't do an awful lot during the day, as I recall, so not much lost. In brief summary - I spent the morning busy-bee-ing away with Gaius Caligula (remember him? He's the one that is supposed to have made a horse a senator) but he didn't survive past his 5th year as Emperor so not long after lunch I was all finished with him. I desperately tried to force myself to do something else but just couldn't, what with the sunshine and the boredom and everything else. So I faffed around for a while, went window shopping and chatted to people on the quad. Chris Probert (head porter) gave me a Wilberforce Academy (they're the Christian Concern umbrella group) programme for their stay. One of their talks was called 'Facing the Challenge of Islam'. I mean, really. I made fajitas with Michael in the JCR kitchen in the evening which was grand. I <3 Michael. I think people can rarely be bothered to see past the madnosity but he's such a love. And mad as a sackful of badgers, obvs.
Leila and I went to the pub in the evening to join in with Chris' birthday drinks. I hadn't intended to drink much or stay late (after all, I'm only getting poorer and the library is a demanding mistress) but unfortunately I failed on both counts. People just kept buying me drinks! It was great. I'm not sure why I agreed to go to the Purple Turtle as well and disgrace myself at table football, but I did. Chris looked a bit peaky by the time we left, bless. I don't think the Sambuca shots helped. Didn't get to bed til 2am, so I thought I'd do the sensible thing and not set an alarm - but of course, woke up at 8am feeling rather the worse for wear.
Powered through the morning feeling a bit sorry for myself but managed to hold out until the hangover cleared up around lunchtime. Ate in the Fellows' Garden with Jess and CC, because CC is going on holiday tomorrow and I am off home tomorrow too. Judging by how ill Jess has been for the last few days I think she might go home as well, though that wasn't her plan. Saw Ella at lunchtime, too - Mods results came out today. All the 2nd years did fine; Ella was obviously miffed because she'd just missed out on a first. She told me she had quoted me (I gave her my revision notes) in one of her papers and I wasn't sure if she was joking or not...
Devoted this afternoon to Claudius but couldn't make myself reread two books of Tacitus, so I had dinner and watched an episode of I, Claudius instead. Aaand then I watched another one. SO GOOD. I have also packed a rather hefty bag of stuff to take home tomorrow. I'm sooooo excited about having some time off. HOORAY!
Next time I communicate with you it will be from the flatlands of East Anglia. Cambridge is calling. Over and out.
Leila and I went to the pub in the evening to join in with Chris' birthday drinks. I hadn't intended to drink much or stay late (after all, I'm only getting poorer and the library is a demanding mistress) but unfortunately I failed on both counts. People just kept buying me drinks! It was great. I'm not sure why I agreed to go to the Purple Turtle as well and disgrace myself at table football, but I did. Chris looked a bit peaky by the time we left, bless. I don't think the Sambuca shots helped. Didn't get to bed til 2am, so I thought I'd do the sensible thing and not set an alarm - but of course, woke up at 8am feeling rather the worse for wear.
Powered through the morning feeling a bit sorry for myself but managed to hold out until the hangover cleared up around lunchtime. Ate in the Fellows' Garden with Jess and CC, because CC is going on holiday tomorrow and I am off home tomorrow too. Judging by how ill Jess has been for the last few days I think she might go home as well, though that wasn't her plan. Saw Ella at lunchtime, too - Mods results came out today. All the 2nd years did fine; Ella was obviously miffed because she'd just missed out on a first. She told me she had quoted me (I gave her my revision notes) in one of her papers and I wasn't sure if she was joking or not...
Devoted this afternoon to Claudius but couldn't make myself reread two books of Tacitus, so I had dinner and watched an episode of I, Claudius instead. Aaand then I watched another one. SO GOOD. I have also packed a rather hefty bag of stuff to take home tomorrow. I'm sooooo excited about having some time off. HOORAY!
Next time I communicate with you it will be from the flatlands of East Anglia. Cambridge is calling. Over and out.
Monday, 26 March 2012
Day.. er..
Didn't post yesterday as even though I was home at a reasonable hour, my effing computer had gone and switched itself into 'unresponsive' mode. I wonder if it's going through some hormonal issues at the moment or something because it is behaving not unlike a fifteen year old. Hopefully it'll grow out of it soon. It is quite old, bless it. Maybe it has Alzheimer's.
Yesterday was the day of The Protest - the Wilberforce Academy (umbrella organisation under which Christian Concern shelters) conference guests were all arriving. College was basically on lockdown, much to the chagrin of Paul the Porter, since nothing particularly riotous or exciting was happening. On the few occasions I interacted with anyone, it all seemed very peaceful and good-natured. Which is nice. What's less nice is how the guests are literally EVERYWHERE. There are unbelievable numbers of them. There are so many, in fact, that some are staying on Staircase 9, where we at least hoped that we would be safe, since it's normally considered too grotty to host guests. Alas no. Jess texted me in high dudgeon yesterday evening to say one had come and knocked on her door - she's on a corridor with one either side of her and no other college people. More than one person has said they are a noisy bunch and that they don't seem to have gathered that they are sharing the premises with students. Grrrr. Andrew has also said some of them are fit. I suppose that would be one way to ensure they don't come back next year... being preyed on by a lascivious German finalist.
I also ate the tastiest macaroons in the history of ever yesterday from the chocolate fair. SO GOOD. And then I went back to the fair later with Rachel and we had churros and chocolate. I also met the new boyf. Based on our brief interaction, he seems nice. He is taller than Rach so that is definitely a start.
I went to Stapes for a bbq yesterday evening - the garden there is so pleasing. Also so nice to have a bbq in March. Granted it was a bit on the chilly side by 8pm but we were determined to enjoy ourselves and we only went inside so that other people could bbq after us. Dan started improvising songs. They were pretty hilarious. It's good to be back on friendly terms again. After we left, I took a detour to Exeter House to nab a cup of tea courtesy of Tom and Adam and also to pick up a recipe book I had left there. I left the kitchen for under five minutes and on my return, made suspicious by the giggling and door-slamming, I checked my handbag. It was full of dried pasta. Hi-larious. I threw it at them, in the best traditions of a woman who knows how to keep her cool and respond elegantly to any situation.
Today I have mostly been in the library. I'm actually writing this from the library now. It's 8.40pm. ARGH. I think it's my home time. I am undecided as to whether to watch an episode of I, Claudius. Given that I'm now doing that period of Roman history, it might feel a little bit too much like revision. Hmmm.
Yesterday was the day of The Protest - the Wilberforce Academy (umbrella organisation under which Christian Concern shelters) conference guests were all arriving. College was basically on lockdown, much to the chagrin of Paul the Porter, since nothing particularly riotous or exciting was happening. On the few occasions I interacted with anyone, it all seemed very peaceful and good-natured. Which is nice. What's less nice is how the guests are literally EVERYWHERE. There are unbelievable numbers of them. There are so many, in fact, that some are staying on Staircase 9, where we at least hoped that we would be safe, since it's normally considered too grotty to host guests. Alas no. Jess texted me in high dudgeon yesterday evening to say one had come and knocked on her door - she's on a corridor with one either side of her and no other college people. More than one person has said they are a noisy bunch and that they don't seem to have gathered that they are sharing the premises with students. Grrrr. Andrew has also said some of them are fit. I suppose that would be one way to ensure they don't come back next year... being preyed on by a lascivious German finalist.
I also ate the tastiest macaroons in the history of ever yesterday from the chocolate fair. SO GOOD. And then I went back to the fair later with Rachel and we had churros and chocolate. I also met the new boyf. Based on our brief interaction, he seems nice. He is taller than Rach so that is definitely a start.
I went to Stapes for a bbq yesterday evening - the garden there is so pleasing. Also so nice to have a bbq in March. Granted it was a bit on the chilly side by 8pm but we were determined to enjoy ourselves and we only went inside so that other people could bbq after us. Dan started improvising songs. They were pretty hilarious. It's good to be back on friendly terms again. After we left, I took a detour to Exeter House to nab a cup of tea courtesy of Tom and Adam and also to pick up a recipe book I had left there. I left the kitchen for under five minutes and on my return, made suspicious by the giggling and door-slamming, I checked my handbag. It was full of dried pasta. Hi-larious. I threw it at them, in the best traditions of a woman who knows how to keep her cool and respond elegantly to any situation.
Today I have mostly been in the library. I'm actually writing this from the library now. It's 8.40pm. ARGH. I think it's my home time. I am undecided as to whether to watch an episode of I, Claudius. Given that I'm now doing that period of Roman history, it might feel a little bit too much like revision. Hmmm.
Saturday, 24 March 2012
Day 12
Massive coup when I got a reply via twitter from the author of the Guardian article about Christian Concern. Felt vindicated.
(am adopting Bridget-Jones-esque style as have today travelled in an open top car and nearly lost my scarf. No Hugh Grant in sight but can't have it all).
Alcoholic beverages: at least 2; hours in library: 3; hours spent in sun: 6+, no. pheasants spotted: 4, likelihood of sunburn: 78%
Jess, CC and I had said we should go to Blenheim Palace for a long time, so it was SO NICE that we actually made it happen and even got Reynoldson and Tom along too. And even better that they drove in Tom's (hilarious) Micra, leaving the girls to revel in the joys of the convertible. Granted I felt a bit like some sort of sea monster with my hair-tendrils waving in my face on the faster roads, but as CC pointed out, there was no alteration in frizz-level. It'll take a lot more than *that* to make my hair big, sister. We had a picnic, by a lake, with Asti and nice bread and strawberries and houmous and similar delights, and then we went for an extended walk around the grounds. It was unbelievably sunny. Jess and I were both in dresses and it was great not to have to wear tights - I only kept my scarf on to avoid turning into a lobster. It was so nice to be away from Oxford, even for just half a day. We even drove into Woodstock when we left the grounds and had a drink in a pub there, and then spent the evening watching questionable television. Now it's bed time and I'm absolutely exhausted, but in a sun, activity and freedom way, rather than a sedentary, post-library, 'my brain is tired but my body is awake' kind of way.
I will need my wits about me tomorrow as I alternately tackle the forces of Latin C1st literature and evangelical homophobia, so g'night all.
(am adopting Bridget-Jones-esque style as have today travelled in an open top car and nearly lost my scarf. No Hugh Grant in sight but can't have it all).
Alcoholic beverages: at least 2; hours in library: 3; hours spent in sun: 6+, no. pheasants spotted: 4, likelihood of sunburn: 78%
Jess, CC and I had said we should go to Blenheim Palace for a long time, so it was SO NICE that we actually made it happen and even got Reynoldson and Tom along too. And even better that they drove in Tom's (hilarious) Micra, leaving the girls to revel in the joys of the convertible. Granted I felt a bit like some sort of sea monster with my hair-tendrils waving in my face on the faster roads, but as CC pointed out, there was no alteration in frizz-level. It'll take a lot more than *that* to make my hair big, sister. We had a picnic, by a lake, with Asti and nice bread and strawberries and houmous and similar delights, and then we went for an extended walk around the grounds. It was unbelievably sunny. Jess and I were both in dresses and it was great not to have to wear tights - I only kept my scarf on to avoid turning into a lobster. It was so nice to be away from Oxford, even for just half a day. We even drove into Woodstock when we left the grounds and had a drink in a pub there, and then spent the evening watching questionable television. Now it's bed time and I'm absolutely exhausted, but in a sun, activity and freedom way, rather than a sedentary, post-library, 'my brain is tired but my body is awake' kind of way.
I will need my wits about me tomorrow as I alternately tackle the forces of Latin C1st literature and evangelical homophobia, so g'night all.
Friday, 23 March 2012
Day 11 - but more specifically, Christian Concern
I could write some introductory banalities - I already did and deleted them, in fact - but I don't want to detract from the main bulk of this post, because it is quite a serious one. Chat about picnics, Horace and ducks will not be appearing.
Had a great chat this evening with Andrew and Fynn on the quad. We were talking about the imminent arrival of the conference being held at Exeter by Christian Concern, a super-evangelical group which advocates (among other things) conversion therapy for homosexuals. This term has seen quite a furore about the situation because, quite frankly, it's not fair for the governing body of College to allow people to stay who hold views which are not only abhorrent but are also likely to have a negative effect on the mental state of the students. This secondary point is the more relevant for college in this instance, I think. One can chirrup merrily away about free speech and conclude that, yes, I suppose, people are allowed to say whatever they like, even if their views are offensive. College is a place which is used as a conference venue, and is as much a home of free speech as any other.
BUT. College is a place which its students consider their home, and where they expect to feel safe. It is a place where fragile people come out of their shells and accept who they are and how they relate to others. Many many people come out at university. University is viewed as an environment of acceptance, trust and support. Exeter doesn't just stop being part of the university of Oxford when term ends, especially not when Hilary term ends and all the Finalists (lit. - very stressed people) stay up in order to revise. Introducing a group of people who dogmatically oppose the acceptance espoused by the very nature of the university at what many people feel is a crucial time is a stress that we ought not to have to deal with. Yadda yadda yadda, free speech applies everywhere, etc etc. That's all very well, in theory. Yet for a university with such a strong commitment to academic excellence (and for a College which thinks it's going the same way) it just seems absolutely ludicrous that it didn't occur to anyone the effect this might have on the people they ought least to want it to affect. Andrew said earlier he was nervous about them coming. I'm a bit nervous about them coming. I'm sure there are plenty of others who feel the same.
What is most frustrating in all of this is the obfuscation of the issue by the Rector, which flies in the face of what every other Fellow of the College thinks, and the sheer apathy of every member of the JCR who is too blinkered to see that this affects them too. We all have gay friends here. I don't understand why we aren't standing up for them.
My rage at the Rector knows increasingly fewer bounds. She still thinks that everyone in college is as clued up on the subject as the few who bother to turn up to meetings about it are. When the story first broke in the OxStu (the slightly classier - if there can be such a thing - student newspaper) she sent an email round to the JCR which effectively said nothing. After a meeting, attended by the College's gay community, the JCR president and secretary, and me (but open to the whole JCR...) I mentioned that no-one that hadn't had it from the horse's mouth knew exactly what was going on. She agreed that she should sent around an email of clarification. A week later, I emailed to remind her. She finally did, and put a message up on the College website, but I still don't feel it's really done the trick. It's also been in the Daily Mail (I added my comment...).
For the Rector, the issue is not one of free speech, or concern for her students. It is purely fiscal. Even after all this palaver (and that after nearly four years here) she still hasn't got a clue who I am, because I've never shown an interest in a career in the city, and I don't attend any networking-type events. Since I've been here, my interest has been for museums, teaching and academia - all (comparatively) low paid jobs. She'll never make any money out of me so I'm not worth her getting to know. She is a cash-oriented machine of a woman, who thinks she understands what makes the world turn. Unfortunately, the more people there are who think like her, the more the system will come to be valued only in cash-terms, and the more groups like Christian Concern will be invited in to gain some extra funds. The students will always be the second-class citizens in such a system. I'm sure that's not how it's supposed to work...
There will be a protest taking place on Sunday in Turl Street. Come and wave a flag about and feel virtuous. But be nice to the porters.
Had a great chat this evening with Andrew and Fynn on the quad. We were talking about the imminent arrival of the conference being held at Exeter by Christian Concern, a super-evangelical group which advocates (among other things) conversion therapy for homosexuals. This term has seen quite a furore about the situation because, quite frankly, it's not fair for the governing body of College to allow people to stay who hold views which are not only abhorrent but are also likely to have a negative effect on the mental state of the students. This secondary point is the more relevant for college in this instance, I think. One can chirrup merrily away about free speech and conclude that, yes, I suppose, people are allowed to say whatever they like, even if their views are offensive. College is a place which is used as a conference venue, and is as much a home of free speech as any other.
BUT. College is a place which its students consider their home, and where they expect to feel safe. It is a place where fragile people come out of their shells and accept who they are and how they relate to others. Many many people come out at university. University is viewed as an environment of acceptance, trust and support. Exeter doesn't just stop being part of the university of Oxford when term ends, especially not when Hilary term ends and all the Finalists (lit. - very stressed people) stay up in order to revise. Introducing a group of people who dogmatically oppose the acceptance espoused by the very nature of the university at what many people feel is a crucial time is a stress that we ought not to have to deal with. Yadda yadda yadda, free speech applies everywhere, etc etc. That's all very well, in theory. Yet for a university with such a strong commitment to academic excellence (and for a College which thinks it's going the same way) it just seems absolutely ludicrous that it didn't occur to anyone the effect this might have on the people they ought least to want it to affect. Andrew said earlier he was nervous about them coming. I'm a bit nervous about them coming. I'm sure there are plenty of others who feel the same.
What is most frustrating in all of this is the obfuscation of the issue by the Rector, which flies in the face of what every other Fellow of the College thinks, and the sheer apathy of every member of the JCR who is too blinkered to see that this affects them too. We all have gay friends here. I don't understand why we aren't standing up for them.
My rage at the Rector knows increasingly fewer bounds. She still thinks that everyone in college is as clued up on the subject as the few who bother to turn up to meetings about it are. When the story first broke in the OxStu (the slightly classier - if there can be such a thing - student newspaper) she sent an email round to the JCR which effectively said nothing. After a meeting, attended by the College's gay community, the JCR president and secretary, and me (but open to the whole JCR...) I mentioned that no-one that hadn't had it from the horse's mouth knew exactly what was going on. She agreed that she should sent around an email of clarification. A week later, I emailed to remind her. She finally did, and put a message up on the College website, but I still don't feel it's really done the trick. It's also been in the Daily Mail (I added my comment...).
For the Rector, the issue is not one of free speech, or concern for her students. It is purely fiscal. Even after all this palaver (and that after nearly four years here) she still hasn't got a clue who I am, because I've never shown an interest in a career in the city, and I don't attend any networking-type events. Since I've been here, my interest has been for museums, teaching and academia - all (comparatively) low paid jobs. She'll never make any money out of me so I'm not worth her getting to know. She is a cash-oriented machine of a woman, who thinks she understands what makes the world turn. Unfortunately, the more people there are who think like her, the more the system will come to be valued only in cash-terms, and the more groups like Christian Concern will be invited in to gain some extra funds. The students will always be the second-class citizens in such a system. I'm sure that's not how it's supposed to work...
There will be a protest taking place on Sunday in Turl Street. Come and wave a flag about and feel virtuous. But be nice to the porters.
Thursday, 22 March 2012
Day 10
Given that I had one of those dreams where you dream that you've woken up late and everything is terrible, then woke up twenty minutes before my alarm, and was just lapsing into a horrific Groundhog Day-style rerun of the same dream when my alarm actually DID go off, it's been an incredibly productive day. I don't think that sentence makes sense so if you can untangle it coherently then you win a prize. I have cake + brownies left over.
I bounded to the library (well... possibly a strong way of putting it) and picked my location. By which I mean I sat on the same desk I've been at all vac. I really like being early into the library because I can make the space my own, kick off my shoes without disturbing people, etc etc. Absolutely rinsed some Catullus and was just contemplating a break when Jess turned up. We had a half an hour stint in the Fellows' Garden before a return to the library. It was so lush outside today that we had to open the windows (necessitating raising the blind in order to avoid an unfortunate sail-like effect) AND turn off the radiator. Why the radiators are left on is beyond me. I suppose College has to justify charging us an extra £300 overhead per term somehow.
I had lunch with Rachel. She appreciated the gift of brownies and cake, as I knew she would. I think her mum will appreciate the gift, also. She says Rach is getting too skinny. Mission: accepted, I say.
After a good few hours beasting through Virgil's Eclogues (full of excellent lines and also many, many MANY names for trees) I decided to break the monotony and do something radical, so I went for a RUN. That's right. An actual, factual run. Not a very long one, it's true. But a run nonetheless. Haven't done that since Michaelmas term. Mmmmhmmmm. There were lots of punts on the river, which meant there were fewer moorhens about, but I did see an excellent push-me-pull-you goose, ie two geese standing in such a way as to make them look like one goose with a head at both ends.
I went back to the library after a shower feeling rather pink in the face (and not without cause...) where I duelled with Cicero and his incessant superlatives. Then I had dinner and watched the University Challenge final. I also ate some cake. It really is a tasty one, and I do say so myself. No ifs about it.
I have also washed my hair. Hooray! I don't know if Emily just moulted on me a lot at the weekend and it's stayed there, or whether my hair is going darker, but I pulled out an awful lot of almost black hairs. Perhaps all the reading of Ovid has got to me and Emily and I have begun to metamorphose into each other, or possibly one and the same being. Namily Fagelmercer. Or something.
I think I'm going to watch an episode of I, Claudius and go to bed. Oooooh yeah.
I bounded to the library (well... possibly a strong way of putting it) and picked my location. By which I mean I sat on the same desk I've been at all vac. I really like being early into the library because I can make the space my own, kick off my shoes without disturbing people, etc etc. Absolutely rinsed some Catullus and was just contemplating a break when Jess turned up. We had a half an hour stint in the Fellows' Garden before a return to the library. It was so lush outside today that we had to open the windows (necessitating raising the blind in order to avoid an unfortunate sail-like effect) AND turn off the radiator. Why the radiators are left on is beyond me. I suppose College has to justify charging us an extra £300 overhead per term somehow.
I had lunch with Rachel. She appreciated the gift of brownies and cake, as I knew she would. I think her mum will appreciate the gift, also. She says Rach is getting too skinny. Mission: accepted, I say.
After a good few hours beasting through Virgil's Eclogues (full of excellent lines and also many, many MANY names for trees) I decided to break the monotony and do something radical, so I went for a RUN. That's right. An actual, factual run. Not a very long one, it's true. But a run nonetheless. Haven't done that since Michaelmas term. Mmmmhmmmm. There were lots of punts on the river, which meant there were fewer moorhens about, but I did see an excellent push-me-pull-you goose, ie two geese standing in such a way as to make them look like one goose with a head at both ends.
I went back to the library after a shower feeling rather pink in the face (and not without cause...) where I duelled with Cicero and his incessant superlatives. Then I had dinner and watched the University Challenge final. I also ate some cake. It really is a tasty one, and I do say so myself. No ifs about it.
I have also washed my hair. Hooray! I don't know if Emily just moulted on me a lot at the weekend and it's stayed there, or whether my hair is going darker, but I pulled out an awful lot of almost black hairs. Perhaps all the reading of Ovid has got to me and Emily and I have begun to metamorphose into each other, or possibly one and the same being. Namily Fagelmercer. Or something.
I think I'm going to watch an episode of I, Claudius and go to bed. Oooooh yeah.
Wednesday, 21 March 2012
Day 9
Just been watching The Apprentice. I hope I never end up at a stage where I think I could go on that programme. I would definitely be the one at the back that didn't say much and then got all defensive about it in the boardroom. I would probably cry. I would have to try and win Alan Sugar over with promises of chicken soup and lokshen just like mamma used to make. I suspect he would not be compliant.
ANYway. Today I bounced merrily off to the library knowing that I would be going through my file, and therefore not having to read Latin. My mission took me a lot longer than I thought, however, since I was still going long beyond lunchtime. I had a lovely chat with Emily via mobile telecommunication device over luncheon, so zat was nice. When I finally finished dealing with the last remnants of Ovid, circa 3.30pm, I made a valiant effort to return to my room with all my Ovid books and take all my Latin Core ones down. Then I tried to read Catullus 64. Needless to say, I did not get very far. I barely made it to 4.30 before I had flounced back to my room, intending to work out recipe quantities and go to Tesco for baking ingredients. On my way out of college I stopped to check my pidge, which I haven't done for days, and found a WEDDING INVITATION there. Phenomenality and joy abound. I was so surprised and pleased (it's a long story..) that I bounced all the way to Tesco and I had to call someone just so I didn't explode. Emily didn't pick up so I rang home instead. It took me a good five minutes to decide whether I was speaking to my dad or my brother (eventually I worked out it was my dad) but yes, HOORAY! I bought all my ingredients and bounced back to the JCR.
The JCR kitchen was surprisingly clean, apart from the large (yet neatly-stacked) pile of washing up. However, it was an absolute mish to work out how to turn the blaaahdy ovens on. Managed to get one working eventually so I made my brownies in that one while I prepared my strawberries and cream cake mixture. It's a recipe I hadn't tried before so I was hoping that it wouldn't let me down (the recipe book makes the original with peaches, but suggests varying the fruit). I can say with great delight that it was phenomenal, so thank you Edd Kimber, Boy Who Bakes. Here is a picture I took on my phone:
ANYway. Today I bounced merrily off to the library knowing that I would be going through my file, and therefore not having to read Latin. My mission took me a lot longer than I thought, however, since I was still going long beyond lunchtime. I had a lovely chat with Emily via mobile telecommunication device over luncheon, so zat was nice. When I finally finished dealing with the last remnants of Ovid, circa 3.30pm, I made a valiant effort to return to my room with all my Ovid books and take all my Latin Core ones down. Then I tried to read Catullus 64. Needless to say, I did not get very far. I barely made it to 4.30 before I had flounced back to my room, intending to work out recipe quantities and go to Tesco for baking ingredients. On my way out of college I stopped to check my pidge, which I haven't done for days, and found a WEDDING INVITATION there. Phenomenality and joy abound. I was so surprised and pleased (it's a long story..) that I bounced all the way to Tesco and I had to call someone just so I didn't explode. Emily didn't pick up so I rang home instead. It took me a good five minutes to decide whether I was speaking to my dad or my brother (eventually I worked out it was my dad) but yes, HOORAY! I bought all my ingredients and bounced back to the JCR.
The JCR kitchen was surprisingly clean, apart from the large (yet neatly-stacked) pile of washing up. However, it was an absolute mish to work out how to turn the blaaahdy ovens on. Managed to get one working eventually so I made my brownies in that one while I prepared my strawberries and cream cake mixture. It's a recipe I hadn't tried before so I was hoping that it wouldn't let me down (the recipe book makes the original with peaches, but suggests varying the fruit). I can say with great delight that it was phenomenal, so thank you Edd Kimber, Boy Who Bakes. Here is a picture I took on my phone:
Omnomnomnomnom. Andrew turned up just as I was finishing (to be fair to him he had come down earlier and accompanied me while I baked) and we had the inaugural slices. Max Fletcher, the ineffable, hilarious, suavely-booted English student, cunningly invited himself over to sample both varieties of baked treats. He said 'have you ever thought about a career as a baker?' to which I replied that I had. I think this surprised him a little. One does not meet that many classicists intending on entering the foodie world. Having said that, the only wannabe pastry chef I ever met was a classicist. Most odd. Adam and Alice took up my invitation to swing by for brownies and then CC and Jess came over and lo and behold, the Apprentice. Reynoldson turned up just in time to eat some brownie and watch half an hour before he shot off on a 'date'. Andrew minced in at one point with his tote bag, saying he was orf to Sainsbury's. A thoroughly sociable evening.
Also, Jess quite rightly pointed out to me via twitter (even though we were sat next to each other in the library) that otters are not in fact rodents. We had to look up what they were and discovered they actually belong to the weasel family, also comprising polecats and such the like. So there you go. Otters are mustelids. Boom. I wish that wasn't the new thing I have learned today.
Tomorrow is a new day, with a new topic. In the immortal words of Mr Darcy (but only in the BBC adaptation) 'I shall conquer this. I shall!'
Tuesday, 20 March 2012
Days 7-8
Today I was casually browsing Twitter (as one does when the only alternative is Ovid) and I discovered that David Mitchell has got engaged. I <3 David Mitchell so I am very happy that he is happy, but at the same time, a tiny little bit of me is very sad. I think we would get on well. I think I am increasingly eschewing appearance and focussing on personality (and brain). Even the pictures of Benedict Cumberbatch and otters that CC hilariously posted on my facebook yesterday cannot put me off him. He's just so goddam clever, and also lovely. This is why I am not attracted to footballers or indeed most sports personalities, but I do like comedians, actors who like a bit of Shakespeare, and *proper* musicians. Here are those otters for you:
Well. There we have it. Otters. Suggestions for other funny animals that famous people look like = well received. Examples may include (but need not be limited to) Brian Blessed and a bear, or Eric Pickles and an elephant.
Yesterday evening a bunch of us congregated in the JCR (ie me, Andrew, Jess, CC and Rennie) where we played Articulate. Andrew and I started off behind but snuck in front to clinch a resounding victory. We are a good team. Then we started reading the cards for the game straight down. Obviously when you are playing the game, you are only looking at the things in the category you are supposed to be explaining, but if you actually read a whole card then you realise how ridiculous they are. And especially so if you read them as if they were connected. 'Jean Paul Gaultier', 'a gymslip' 'a passion fruit' and 'oscillating'. Sounds a bit poetic/surreal. Andrew and I were practically in hysterics over them but the rest of them didn't think it was that funny. Perhaps our victory had gone to our heads. What's worrying is that it was only Monday and we were behaving like absolute lunatics. How bad will it be by the time we get to Friday?! Not that days of the week have any meaning, as such. They are all spent in the library. But some days of the week (lit. the weekends) are more stressful than others, because there are more people around should one need to venture outside of college. And there are more tourists. Damn those tourists.
I had a moomoos (that's a milkshake from the Covered Market in central Ox) today. It was Raspberry and Flake flavoured. It was delish, and delectable to sit outside and drink it and watch the ducks struggle to get out of the pond in the Fellows' Garden, but not a delight to be enjoyed too often. It was nice to see Adam and Alice though, so that's alrighty. What am I saying, I had a grand lunchtime.
ZOMG I just checked Twitter and the QI elves have posted the otters/Benedict Cumberbatch link. WHAT IS THIS?! That's the third time it's come up in the last two days. Jeeeeez people. So the man has some expressions that are occasionally similar to a water rodent. I'm sure many people do. Get over it.
I also just finished watching the third Dirk Gently episode. I've really enjoyed this series - I hope there are more. Dirk Gently is a bit like Doctor Who, but without special powers, and a lot more annoying. Weeell... I don't know, actually. Maybe the special powers are the only reason the Doctor is not so annoying. It's easier to forgive human flaws if the person who's flawed isn't human. Not having met any people that aren't humans, I can only hypothesise on this one.
Right, I'm off to the JCR to get me some social time. I hope people are down there or I will cry.
Saturday, 17 March 2012
Days 5-6
I forgot to blog yesterday because I actually had a sociable evening so didn't need to offload my loneliness into the ether of the interwebz. Soz. However, notable points included TEA with Emily, who has been visiting, then a random shopping excursion (I bought a skirt - but don't get too excited, ladies and gents, it's for sub fusc). Then I had to go the library in order to look up PAGE REFERENCES (srsly) and then I had a stressful couple of hours of feeling like everyone else had finished and I hadn't, and hating the world a bit (I was also working, not just pitying myself). I wrote a snotty facebook status about it and then deleted it after ten minutes for being too self-indulgent. Anyway, I had a looooong conversation with Ella about the goddam extended essay and when she had left I made the changes she suggested. It was exactly 6000 words - the upper limit. BOOM. I had planned to go the pub with Rachel when Farha (a little tipsy) and Jess (hoping to be thus) turned up in my room to also take me to the pub, and we ended up all heading to the Turf together. Farha and Rachel <3 each other, which is pleasing to have been in the middle of. Not literally, you understand. I enjoy facilitating feelings of love in the world. Anyways, Rach had to head off but CC had by this time joined us and we decided that obviously the thing to do was to go to GBK for dinner, which we did. We had a merry (and messy, at least in my case) dinner and returned to college, where some sort of shenanigans was going down in the bar. Turned out to be a retirement party. WTF. Jess went off to carry on unpacking and Farha left too, so CC and I had a great chat. I talked a lot. I do that when I am tipsy, but frankly, it's annoying. I wish I wouldn't.
Today I made the final, final, last and forever changes to the essay and to prove it to myself I printed off allll the bits of it and carried them to Rymans, where I bought binding folder-y type things, and also star shapes made of neon card. Then I went back to my room and ceremoniously hole punched the essays and bound them, and wrote out the envelopes to the exam board etc. I'm taking it to Schools first thing Monday, YEAH. Then I did some Greek vocab and sat down with my Suetonius and my 15ft timeline of Augustus, and added references to it with the neon stars. It looks much jollier now, though still intimidatingly long (quoth she).
I spent 1pm til 5pm in the library with Ovid. My brain hurt but I knew I could stay because I was due to meet Emily at 5. We had ice cream (in the event actually only I had ice cream, but whatevs) and deep chats, and then we also had a takeaway noodlenation between us and watched the second episode of I, Claudius. ALSO Emily showed me this picture:
Now you too will never be able to un-see the dog face on a duck's beak. WHY HAS NO-ONE POINTED THIS OUT BEFORE?
Also it occurred to me that there is a significant problem with Reception Studies and this is that nobody really seems to know why we are doing it, except for the purpose of having something else to study. Someone needs to sit down and write a mission statement, and then possibly also a how-to guide, and that way we would be able to cut out a lot of the dross in the work that is done and direct attention at stuff that would actually be worthwhile. I mean, what are people hoping to achieve by writing about how Troy (the film) is one reception of the Iliad? I'm sure there are things that could usefully be said. But I get the sense that the people who want to write about Troy aren't the sort of people who are going to be saying those things.
That's just my feeling. You heard it here first, folks.
Today I made the final, final, last and forever changes to the essay and to prove it to myself I printed off allll the bits of it and carried them to Rymans, where I bought binding folder-y type things, and also star shapes made of neon card. Then I went back to my room and ceremoniously hole punched the essays and bound them, and wrote out the envelopes to the exam board etc. I'm taking it to Schools first thing Monday, YEAH. Then I did some Greek vocab and sat down with my Suetonius and my 15ft timeline of Augustus, and added references to it with the neon stars. It looks much jollier now, though still intimidatingly long (quoth she).
I spent 1pm til 5pm in the library with Ovid. My brain hurt but I knew I could stay because I was due to meet Emily at 5. We had ice cream (in the event actually only I had ice cream, but whatevs) and deep chats, and then we also had a takeaway noodlenation between us and watched the second episode of I, Claudius. ALSO Emily showed me this picture:
Now you too will never be able to un-see the dog face on a duck's beak. WHY HAS NO-ONE POINTED THIS OUT BEFORE?
Also it occurred to me that there is a significant problem with Reception Studies and this is that nobody really seems to know why we are doing it, except for the purpose of having something else to study. Someone needs to sit down and write a mission statement, and then possibly also a how-to guide, and that way we would be able to cut out a lot of the dross in the work that is done and direct attention at stuff that would actually be worthwhile. I mean, what are people hoping to achieve by writing about how Troy (the film) is one reception of the Iliad? I'm sure there are things that could usefully be said. But I get the sense that the people who want to write about Troy aren't the sort of people who are going to be saying those things.
That's just my feeling. You heard it here first, folks.
Thursday, 15 March 2012
Day 4
All my best ideas strike me when I am without the means or inclination to do anything about them. This is the tragedy of my life. Last night I was lying in bed (all too aware of the couple in the room above me, but there's no need to go into that...) and I had some brilliant /life-changing/fairly interesting thought about something which NOW ESCAPES ME. So frustrating. And again, yesterday and today, moseying around Christchurch Meadow, I had a really good thought about something or other. In fairness, I don't think you as readers are missing out on much because both/all these thoughts were, if I recall even a little vaguely, to do with my essay on Catullus and the reception of grief in modern female poetry.
I'm pretty sure one was about how a novelisation of Catullus' life that I had read and discarded as unhelpful actually could be worked into a broader look at the subject, since it was written though the eyes of Caelius (styled as Catullus' friend) as he came to terms with Catullus' death. V. Interesting. It was called The Key, and it was by Benita Kane Jaro:
It was pretty fun to read because interesting classical novelisations are few and far between, and often of rather dubious quality. Every novelist thinks they've got a story about Ancient Rome inside them and inevitably what is produced is simply 'cacata carta' (that's a cheeky Catullus reference for you right there. No. 36, I do believe. Boom).
I can't remember what the rest of these tiny sparks of genius were. I always hope this means that they're either unimportant or that they'll come back to me, but I fear that this is an optimistic approach. However, I have not yet reached the levels of pretentiousness it would require (she says, having just quoted a Catullus poem..) to start carrying around a notebook for my thoughts. I am not a New Romantic. I appreciate daffodils and move on with my life. I do still really like moorhens, though, but I don't think that's quite the same.
In other news, today I acquired a KETTLE. I've had 3 whole cups of tea this afternoon. My hands were shaking a little bit when I made the first one; I'm not sure why. Anticipation, possibly. Maybe I should have a t-shirt with some hilarious tea-related slogan, like 'Sex, Tea, and Rock 'n' Roll'. Maybe that is taking things too far.
Also, I went to Oxford Central library today to return the books I got out when I borrowed a load of poetry for my essay. I read one, One Hundred Years of Solitude, which I really enjoyed, but I didn't have time to read the other - The Woman in White. Partly I think this was because I was a little bit afraid to read it at night time when there was no-one around. I had to renew my last poetry book because I'm terrified I'll need to put in a reference at the last minute and won't have it to hand. Anyway, when I took them back I decided it was basically Fate that two books I've ogled in bookshops before now just *happened* to be on display, so I have come back with Mr Rosenblum's List and A Tiny Bit Marvellous. I am excited to read both of them. Hopefully I will have the strength of mind to put them down and do some revision every once in a while...
My parents and sister and sister's friend have gone to see Stomp at home in Cambridge this evening. I am jealous that they are having fun and I am not. Evenings are really boring in a single room. I don't think I'm ever going to be able to live on my own because lack of social interaction drives me insane. I had a lovely chat with Gabi earlier when we met by chance in the corridor but that was nearly two whole hours ago and that's a long time to sit in your room feeling like you ought to be working, especially if that's pretty much what you've been doing all day. It's no wonder that all my best thinking occurs when I am out and about, really.
OH. Today I finished my timeline of the final years of Caesar and the principate of Augustus. It goes from 49BC to AD14. It is enormous - at least 3.5 times the size of me lengthwise. It was an absolute mission but I am looking forward to annotating it and the happy thing is that no other princeps ruled for that long, so Tiberius, Gaius and Claudius should be far less painful. However, I had a look through my Greek History file and there is a loooooot to cover. I don't know how I am going to do that. Well, I kind of do. But it's a big task and it's a bit daunting to have all these things in front of me before I've cleared the last one out of the way. Once I've handed in this bloody essay I'll be ready, I think.
Right. Onwards and upwards, as the mole said to the earthworm. And don't forget your sunglasses.
I'm pretty sure one was about how a novelisation of Catullus' life that I had read and discarded as unhelpful actually could be worked into a broader look at the subject, since it was written though the eyes of Caelius (styled as Catullus' friend) as he came to terms with Catullus' death. V. Interesting. It was called The Key, and it was by Benita Kane Jaro:
It was pretty fun to read because interesting classical novelisations are few and far between, and often of rather dubious quality. Every novelist thinks they've got a story about Ancient Rome inside them and inevitably what is produced is simply 'cacata carta' (that's a cheeky Catullus reference for you right there. No. 36, I do believe. Boom).
I can't remember what the rest of these tiny sparks of genius were. I always hope this means that they're either unimportant or that they'll come back to me, but I fear that this is an optimistic approach. However, I have not yet reached the levels of pretentiousness it would require (she says, having just quoted a Catullus poem..) to start carrying around a notebook for my thoughts. I am not a New Romantic. I appreciate daffodils and move on with my life. I do still really like moorhens, though, but I don't think that's quite the same.
In other news, today I acquired a KETTLE. I've had 3 whole cups of tea this afternoon. My hands were shaking a little bit when I made the first one; I'm not sure why. Anticipation, possibly. Maybe I should have a t-shirt with some hilarious tea-related slogan, like 'Sex, Tea, and Rock 'n' Roll'. Maybe that is taking things too far.
Also, I went to Oxford Central library today to return the books I got out when I borrowed a load of poetry for my essay. I read one, One Hundred Years of Solitude, which I really enjoyed, but I didn't have time to read the other - The Woman in White. Partly I think this was because I was a little bit afraid to read it at night time when there was no-one around. I had to renew my last poetry book because I'm terrified I'll need to put in a reference at the last minute and won't have it to hand. Anyway, when I took them back I decided it was basically Fate that two books I've ogled in bookshops before now just *happened* to be on display, so I have come back with Mr Rosenblum's List and A Tiny Bit Marvellous. I am excited to read both of them. Hopefully I will have the strength of mind to put them down and do some revision every once in a while...
My parents and sister and sister's friend have gone to see Stomp at home in Cambridge this evening. I am jealous that they are having fun and I am not. Evenings are really boring in a single room. I don't think I'm ever going to be able to live on my own because lack of social interaction drives me insane. I had a lovely chat with Gabi earlier when we met by chance in the corridor but that was nearly two whole hours ago and that's a long time to sit in your room feeling like you ought to be working, especially if that's pretty much what you've been doing all day. It's no wonder that all my best thinking occurs when I am out and about, really.
OH. Today I finished my timeline of the final years of Caesar and the principate of Augustus. It goes from 49BC to AD14. It is enormous - at least 3.5 times the size of me lengthwise. It was an absolute mission but I am looking forward to annotating it and the happy thing is that no other princeps ruled for that long, so Tiberius, Gaius and Claudius should be far less painful. However, I had a look through my Greek History file and there is a loooooot to cover. I don't know how I am going to do that. Well, I kind of do. But it's a big task and it's a bit daunting to have all these things in front of me before I've cleared the last one out of the way. Once I've handed in this bloody essay I'll be ready, I think.
Right. Onwards and upwards, as the mole said to the earthworm. And don't forget your sunglasses.
Wednesday, 14 March 2012
Day 3
Today almost got off to a false start but was saved by the miraculous reappearance of Andrew and CC. We had breakfast chez Andrew. I had a pecan pastry. They're the best kind. Omnomnomnom. And also strawberries, and crucially, also, TEA. I am alarmingly dependent on it. As soon as I overcome my inherent Jewish hatred of spending 'unnecessary' money and go and buy a kettle I will be a lot happier, I think.
The library was unusually empty today, so even though I turned up around half 9 there was still a whole empty desk at the back. Also, am I the only one who sits cross-legged in the library? Or indeed, on any chair? I just don't understand how it is comfortable to sit with feet dangling. Perhaps that's because my legs are too short and I dislike flailing around trying to reach the floor in vain. I nearly had to do that today in any case because yesterday I practically crippled myself by smashing my knee into my desk chair. These dilemmas aside, however, I managed to sit down and actually do some useful work on my reception essay. I attribute this largely to the fact that I knew someone whose opinion I value was going to look at it and this spurred me on to actually sort out the problems in my first draft. I think I am happy with it now. It has a conclusion of more than about five lines, so that's a start.
I went to WHSmiths on a revision-materials-buying excursion and bumped into Adam. I bought exciting (well, exciting for me) pens and a huuuuuuuuuge roll of paper which I have been putting to good use this afternoon by making a timeline. I started at 49BC at around 1.30 - it's now 9.30 and I have only got to 5BC. I've got the rest of Augustus to finish and then Tiberius, Caligula AND Claudius, ugh. I think I will save them for tomorrow because I am getting a bit bored of them now. Maybe I'll even treat you to a picture. I'll have practically repapered my room by the time I'm done.
I also remembered to buy a Mothers' Day card, because I am an exemplary daughter. I bet my brother (at uni in Leeds) will not remember. Might be a long shot to say my sister at home will remember, tbh. On my way to post it at the Lodge, I was startled by a procession of twits in gowns. No, but actually. Helen Spencer, fellow in English and all round clever person (of whom a friend once said 'I can't believe I just got blanked by someone wearing ORANGE TIGHTS') has joined the proctors' office, or something. Anyway, for some reason this required a strange ceremony involving full (I want to say triumphal but that's not what it is) regalia on behalf of all the usual suspects; Rector, Bursar, Chaplain, etc, etc, mincing around the quad in various shades of embarrassed, while a skeleton choir sang madrigals. Most odd. Paul, the porter (he's my fave) shared my confusion with me and also let me into a little tidbit of information which is supposed to remain a secret but y'know what, now that I've told Andrew it won't be secret for long so I have compunction in posting it on t'internet - trashings might be banned this year. THE OUTRAGE. I have not slaved away for nearly four years only to be NOT doused with water on my arrival back in College at the end of it all. How can it be that trashings are going to be banned, and yet a LAWN PLAY is going to be allowed to happen in Trinity term? HOW?! It is very important that we are all given the opportunity to look like this:
Andrew said we should write to our tutors. I suggested that my tutor may be ineffectual in accomplishing much. Farha enjoyed my description of her as 'the biggest wet blanket since the invention of fire safety' (I quite enjoyed it too. Sometimes I surprise myself).
Other than that, it's been a very quiet day. I went for another walk around Christchurch meadow and I think I freaked out a guy in a Teddy Hall splash jacket, because we were going in the same direction and I was walking behind him all the way from the top of Rose Lane to the bridge at Boathouse Island.
I've also decided that owning a jar of nutella is a really bad idea, because all it means is that I eat nutella out of the jar. Some day I will learn some acceptable eating habits, but I doubt it's going to be any time soon.
Also, self-pity alert - I'm pretty sure that whatever it is I've been nearly coming down with for about two weeks now is on the brink of making itself known. Having said that, I thought that a week ago as well. Maybe I'm just getting lurgy by stages.
Oooh and finally... I <3 Drusus. Have you seen the first episode of I, Claudius? No? Well, watch it for Drusus. He's an all-round nice guy and a bit of a fittie, too. And bloody awesome at campaigning.
Join me again tomorrow for more BANTER.
The library was unusually empty today, so even though I turned up around half 9 there was still a whole empty desk at the back. Also, am I the only one who sits cross-legged in the library? Or indeed, on any chair? I just don't understand how it is comfortable to sit with feet dangling. Perhaps that's because my legs are too short and I dislike flailing around trying to reach the floor in vain. I nearly had to do that today in any case because yesterday I practically crippled myself by smashing my knee into my desk chair. These dilemmas aside, however, I managed to sit down and actually do some useful work on my reception essay. I attribute this largely to the fact that I knew someone whose opinion I value was going to look at it and this spurred me on to actually sort out the problems in my first draft. I think I am happy with it now. It has a conclusion of more than about five lines, so that's a start.
I went to WHSmiths on a revision-materials-buying excursion and bumped into Adam. I bought exciting (well, exciting for me) pens and a huuuuuuuuuge roll of paper which I have been putting to good use this afternoon by making a timeline. I started at 49BC at around 1.30 - it's now 9.30 and I have only got to 5BC. I've got the rest of Augustus to finish and then Tiberius, Caligula AND Claudius, ugh. I think I will save them for tomorrow because I am getting a bit bored of them now. Maybe I'll even treat you to a picture. I'll have practically repapered my room by the time I'm done.
I also remembered to buy a Mothers' Day card, because I am an exemplary daughter. I bet my brother (at uni in Leeds) will not remember. Might be a long shot to say my sister at home will remember, tbh. On my way to post it at the Lodge, I was startled by a procession of twits in gowns. No, but actually. Helen Spencer, fellow in English and all round clever person (of whom a friend once said 'I can't believe I just got blanked by someone wearing ORANGE TIGHTS') has joined the proctors' office, or something. Anyway, for some reason this required a strange ceremony involving full (I want to say triumphal but that's not what it is) regalia on behalf of all the usual suspects; Rector, Bursar, Chaplain, etc, etc, mincing around the quad in various shades of embarrassed, while a skeleton choir sang madrigals. Most odd. Paul, the porter (he's my fave) shared my confusion with me and also let me into a little tidbit of information which is supposed to remain a secret but y'know what, now that I've told Andrew it won't be secret for long so I have compunction in posting it on t'internet - trashings might be banned this year. THE OUTRAGE. I have not slaved away for nearly four years only to be NOT doused with water on my arrival back in College at the end of it all. How can it be that trashings are going to be banned, and yet a LAWN PLAY is going to be allowed to happen in Trinity term? HOW?! It is very important that we are all given the opportunity to look like this:
and also this:
Andrew said we should write to our tutors. I suggested that my tutor may be ineffectual in accomplishing much. Farha enjoyed my description of her as 'the biggest wet blanket since the invention of fire safety' (I quite enjoyed it too. Sometimes I surprise myself).
Other than that, it's been a very quiet day. I went for another walk around Christchurch meadow and I think I freaked out a guy in a Teddy Hall splash jacket, because we were going in the same direction and I was walking behind him all the way from the top of Rose Lane to the bridge at Boathouse Island.
I've also decided that owning a jar of nutella is a really bad idea, because all it means is that I eat nutella out of the jar. Some day I will learn some acceptable eating habits, but I doubt it's going to be any time soon.
Also, self-pity alert - I'm pretty sure that whatever it is I've been nearly coming down with for about two weeks now is on the brink of making itself known. Having said that, I thought that a week ago as well. Maybe I'm just getting lurgy by stages.
Oooh and finally... I <3 Drusus. Have you seen the first episode of I, Claudius? No? Well, watch it for Drusus. He's an all-round nice guy and a bit of a fittie, too. And bloody awesome at campaigning.
Join me again tomorrow for more BANTER.
Tuesday, 13 March 2012
Day 2
So my erstwhile editor and critic of long standing (he knows who he is because he's the only one who reads my blogs) has suggested that I add more 'social commentary', which I think merits a picture from one of my favourite webcomics, the genius that is Kate Beaton's Hark, a Vagrant:
Then I went back to the library (yes, life really is that exciting these days), although this time I had my Greek core file with me. Ohoh yes. It's all about variety.
I had a go at reading some Suetonius this evening but gave it up when Farha came to say hello. We ended up having dinner together and waxing lyrical about our love of vegetables (we really love them). Then I watched Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency, ep.2, which was excellent. And now the past has caught up with the present and I am writing about how I am writing a blog. I should stop before it all gets a bit meta.
Isn't it great? Yeah. I <3 Jane Austen.
There's not an awful lot for me to comment socially about, to be perfectly honest. There are so few people around and I interact with so few of them that there isn't an awful lot to comment on. Alas, woe, head-beating and teeth-gnashing, etc.
I managed to have a cup of tea this morning. This was the c(o)up of the day. I traipsed upstairs to Andrew's room to use his kettle. After that I felt ready to burrow underground again (I returned to the Gladstone library) and I read a book, a whole book on Reception studies by one L. Hardwick. Yeah.
Ooh this blog is so multimedia it's not even real. Check me out. I mean, look at it. It's got a guy with horns on the front cover. You can't tell me that's not classical. It was pretty interesting, too. Though possibly too broad for my use. Still, it's one more thing to put on the bibliography. If I can get it to fill a page I will be happy (and also a bit smug).
I also had lunch with Adam. I enjoy our lunch breaks. I went to Tesco beforehand and became the proud owner of some tomato ketchup, so I am now truly living it large. I noticed (because 'observant' is my middle name) that Tesco is virtually empty these days, thus proving that actually students make up the bulk of their customers at all times. Something for central supermarkets to ponder, perhaps. They probably have market researchers who are already well aware of the phenomenon, but just in case, y'know, it needed flagging up again...
I returned triumphantly to Exeter library this afternoon. I dislike how if you aren't at the library before 10am, there are no seats to be had (not even for ready money *sneaky Oscar Wilde quotation FTW*) but happily no-one likes the annexe, so I stationed myself there with my Latin Core file and sorted through it. Once I had done that, I went on a vigorous walk via Christchurch meadows, where I enjoyed judging and begrudged dodging tourists left, right and centre. I was also confirmed in my belief that moorhens are super awesome. Have you seen their feet? You can't tell me they're not awesome.
Then I went back to the library (yes, life really is that exciting these days), although this time I had my Greek core file with me. Ohoh yes. It's all about variety.
I had a go at reading some Suetonius this evening but gave it up when Farha came to say hello. We ended up having dinner together and waxing lyrical about our love of vegetables (we really love them). Then I watched Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency, ep.2, which was excellent. And now the past has caught up with the present and I am writing about how I am writing a blog. I should stop before it all gets a bit meta.
Monday, 12 March 2012
Day 1
I've decided that an excellent way to stave off boredom over the course of revising for my Finals in Classics (or 'Literae Humaniores', if you'd rather) at Oxford will be to blog about it. That way, when I am craving human interaction but have to spend another three hours in the library in order to 'finish' something I wish I'd never started, I will be able to vent my frustration via the internet, and no-one will get hurt. I think this is a good plan.
This could go one of two ways. Either I will blog obsessively every day and you will discover far more than you ever cared to know. Or it will sustain my interest for a week, and thereafter be consigned to a the Great Big Recycling Bin in the sky. Whichever it is, it will have done its job, so I don't feel too bad involving any unwitting readers in my experiment. Blogging is surely one of the most selfish acts of sharing, with the possible exception of gratuitous facebook status updates (a sin of which I also admit to being culpable).
Anyway. Today started relatively well. I was up before my alarm and was therefore at the library early - even before it opened. Naturally this meant I bumped into my erstwhile professor, Hutch (not his actual name), who is currently on sabbatical writing a book. No big deal. We had a short burst of library/revision 'banter' before the doors opened and all those eager beavers for whom the word 'vacation' means only that there are fewer people stealing their books flooded in (if floods can be composed of between six to ten people). I was the first person into the Gladstone Link, that weird, Star-Trek-style library that someone thought would be a useful addition to the Bodleian. In fairness to it, I have used it an awful lot this term. Today I found an impressive-looking stack worth of books and sat at a desk all to myself from 9am until nearly 12. I did also do some work. Then I returned and bumped into some friends one after the other, who provided me with my source of human interaction for the morning. So far, so good. After a lunch break I headed to Exeter library with my Ovid file, in order to work out what I was going to revise on Ovid. Turns out there isn't that much, which is reassuring as all my other files are at least twice the size (and in the case of my Greek History file, possible three or four times the size). A quiet afternoon of desperate attempts to convince myself I was working alternating with lapses into complete apathy resolved itself into a mission to find myself some hot water. I have had to move from my nice, big, and above all shared room on the front quad of college into a small, fairly shabby and crucially single room on the back quad for the duration of the vac. In the process of dividing up the shared room, I have lost access to a kettle. This is a serious blow as I have been without tea all day (tea is effectively my life blood and I would have a tea IV if I thought it wouldn't get in the way). Happily my search proved successful and I even managed some more human interaction in the process.
Here endeth the lesson. Day 1 of many, many more draws to its inexorable close.
The scene is set. The next post will be funnier (/funny?), promise.
This could go one of two ways. Either I will blog obsessively every day and you will discover far more than you ever cared to know. Or it will sustain my interest for a week, and thereafter be consigned to a the Great Big Recycling Bin in the sky. Whichever it is, it will have done its job, so I don't feel too bad involving any unwitting readers in my experiment. Blogging is surely one of the most selfish acts of sharing, with the possible exception of gratuitous facebook status updates (a sin of which I also admit to being culpable).
Anyway. Today started relatively well. I was up before my alarm and was therefore at the library early - even before it opened. Naturally this meant I bumped into my erstwhile professor, Hutch (not his actual name), who is currently on sabbatical writing a book. No big deal. We had a short burst of library/revision 'banter' before the doors opened and all those eager beavers for whom the word 'vacation' means only that there are fewer people stealing their books flooded in (if floods can be composed of between six to ten people). I was the first person into the Gladstone Link, that weird, Star-Trek-style library that someone thought would be a useful addition to the Bodleian. In fairness to it, I have used it an awful lot this term. Today I found an impressive-looking stack worth of books and sat at a desk all to myself from 9am until nearly 12. I did also do some work. Then I returned and bumped into some friends one after the other, who provided me with my source of human interaction for the morning. So far, so good. After a lunch break I headed to Exeter library with my Ovid file, in order to work out what I was going to revise on Ovid. Turns out there isn't that much, which is reassuring as all my other files are at least twice the size (and in the case of my Greek History file, possible three or four times the size). A quiet afternoon of desperate attempts to convince myself I was working alternating with lapses into complete apathy resolved itself into a mission to find myself some hot water. I have had to move from my nice, big, and above all shared room on the front quad of college into a small, fairly shabby and crucially single room on the back quad for the duration of the vac. In the process of dividing up the shared room, I have lost access to a kettle. This is a serious blow as I have been without tea all day (tea is effectively my life blood and I would have a tea IV if I thought it wouldn't get in the way). Happily my search proved successful and I even managed some more human interaction in the process.
Here endeth the lesson. Day 1 of many, many more draws to its inexorable close.
The scene is set. The next post will be funnier (/funny?), promise.
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