my darlings:

1. I am convinced our TASP will be the one to finally save the world. or at least small corners of it, and really, that's all anyone can ask for. Alex, do you already have one of those smoking jackets with patches on the elbows? because if not, we simply must go smoking-jacket-shopping in Ithaca sometime. you can't be a professor without it.

2. here's a question: how important is history? I'm fascinated by it, but is it really necessary? aren't all historians basically propagandists, 1984-style, trying to fix the past to meet what the present wants it to be? this has been inspired by the fact that I'm reading A Short History of Europe because I know nothing about european history. but I love it. but that's so pointless.

3. has anyone heard from Janice or Seyram lately? I want to know how they're doing. TASPers have been good to me lately and I want to return the favor.

4. did you guys know Francis Fukuyama was a tasper?

5. and finally, I need summer movie recommendations. I just watched Amelie for the fifth or sixth time, and it just fills me with delight. what are some more delightfilling movies?