The Ides of March: don’t beware, be nice

15 03 2012

“Beware the Ides of March” is a well-known Shakespearean quote from Julius Caesar. Although “Ides” was the ancient Roman way of signifying the middle of the month (reference), the connection to Caesar’s assassination and that one word – “beware” – give it an ominous tone and may bring a sense of foreboding.

The pleasant bit of graffiti below was found on the streets of another ancient city, Athens, Greece. On a day when people commonly think “beware,” isn’t it preferable to “be nice” instead?

Be nice





1,000 words, image three

28 06 2011

(Third in a series of eventually 1,000 images).

It’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Or that one picture can tell the entire story. Art is full of emotion. What emotions do you feel when viewing this sculpture? Or, what emotions do you see in the subject?

Andersonville, GA
This sculpture by Donna L. Dobberfuhl is titled, “The Price of Freedom.” It symbolizes the emotional toll of being a POW and is a powerful reminder of the bravery of men and women taken captive in the name of protecting America’s freedom. It depicts pain and suffering while also depicting strength and pride.

The POW museum details the prisoner of war experience through artifacts, memorabilia, and incredible stories told by men and women who suffered as prisoners of war. It is part of Andersonville National Historic Site, the location of one of the largest Confederate Civil War prisons, where more than 45,000 Union soldiers were interred over a 14-month period. The site also includes, Andersonville National Cemetery, final resting place of the 13,000 POW soldiers as well as military veterans and their dependents who request to be buried there.





1,000 words, image two

27 05 2011

(Second in a series of eventually 1,000 images).

It’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Or that one picture can tell the entire story. What does the picture below say to you?

Asheville, NC

This picture of a statue was taken in Asheville, North Carolina. The defect below the eye makes it appear as if the woman is crying. The curled hair on her shoulder could look like the fingers of a lover’s caress.

Asheville, in western North Carolina, is perhaps best known for the Biltmore Estate, a privately-owned country estate of the Vanderbilt family. Beyond the estate lies a bohemian city with renowned restaurants, vibrant shops, a lively music scene, and a spirit that’s surprisingly different from one’s assumptions of a “mountain” town.








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