On February 14 each year, Valentine's Day sends business soaring. Flowers, chocolates, and jewelry are on this day's most wanted gift lists to be exchanged between lovers. But how did Saint Valentine came to flowers, jewels, and chocolates? Or is he actually even the patron saint of lovers? For none of this has he done any work; it all involves an unusual inheritance that fell to him late in death.
I like history. If it is sometimes weird and wonderful, so much the better.
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Friday, January 10, 2014
LGBT History in The British Museum
The British Museum is better known for its pretty little gift books that devote themselves to topics like flowers and cats (always a seller). That the same museum has published an identical catalog on LGBT related museum objects is one of the wonders of 2013. Coming from the British Museum, you may expect quality in research and content; you won't be disappointed.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
The Devil's Christmas Song
The Church has been responsible for the most inspiring Christmas music. They had the message to promote, the venues for the party, and the necessary cash to pay for it. Christmas music is terribly predictable; Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and angels are standard fare. How refreshing if you get an oratorio with a role for the devil.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
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