Minor Wisdom

Five years after the levees failed

I’ve been struggling for words to commemorate what happened here five years ago and to describe our current state. Maybe no commentary is necessary. Five years ago, the levees failed, and as a result, my city drowned and over 1,000 New Orleanians died. Today, many neighborhoods have not recovered—the lower Ninth Ward for one. What else need be said?

Friedman’s fearless football forecast for the Tulane Green Wave

Football season must be near, because Reuben Friedman has once again issued his annual predictions for the Tulane Green Wave’s gridiron success. Reuben is a die-hard Tulane fan, knowledgeable about Tulane football lore and college football generally. He predicts a 5-7 season for the Green Wave, but will be pleased if Tulane exceeds his expectations by winning 6 games and becoming bowl-eligible.

What I remember most about Katrina

We’re coming up on the 5-year anniversary of Katrina. On Saturday I’ll be at Rising Tide, a conference of New Orleans bloggers and other social-media types.

Here’s what I remember most about Katrina. Thanks to the kindness of people I barely knew, my wife and I had comfortable shelter during and immediately after the storm. Nevertheless, I remember waking up every morning during those days, and a thought crashing in seconds after I awoke: This isn’t a nightmare. It’s really happening. I really can’t go home. My city is really drowning.

One thing alone ...

“One thing alone not even God can do,
To make undone whatever hath been done.”

—Aristotle

Brother Dege must like the acoustics in the men’s room

Another record I’ve been digging lately is the latest by Brother Dege: Folk Songs of the American Longhair. Here’s one cut from that album, Dead & Gone. Enjoy.

How easily can your brain be manipulated? This easily.

You think you make up your own mind about things? Think again. (Hat tip to The Invisible Gorilla.)