Tuesday, October 07, 2025
Monday, October 06, 2025
Wow--just found me a new crochet mentor to take me up to the doctoral program in fine art fiber work.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQJIPn7yNH0
Moreover I like her voice and her sense of color.
I'm very particular about these things.
And moreover my hands look exactly like hers.
I hate ugly hands and dirty fingernails.
I use to imitate my father's handwriting and my favorite professors.
It's like when I "met" my latest anesthetis who was about to knock me out for a medical procedure. The nurse had already put in the IV on the back of my left hand.
This anethetist was chatting with me about 7 minutes as he wheeled me to Theater One--at "Good Samaritan."
As he injected the anesthesia in, I have no idea what it was, he said,
"Beautiful hands,"
So I boasted a bit. He's not the only expert in this very cold and very bright room.
"Yes," I said, spreadingmy fingers, "very good at arts and crafts."
My elder cousin Ko Too,the model for my story Black Belt, also admired my hands when I was 8 or so.
"Like candles", he said.
Ko Too himself was a really good-looking man.
All my relatives were. Tank corp commander trained at Fort Knox.
Kyi May Kaung
10-7-2025
AI Overview
There isn't a novel written by Cicero from a fictional "Cicero's point of view," but there are novels about Cicero, such as Robert Harris's "Cicero Trilogy" (Imperium, Lustrum, and Dictator), which presents his life through the eyes of his secretary. Cicero himself wrote many works, including philosophical dialogues, speeches, and letters, that offer his perspective on various subjects but are not novels.
Novels About Cicero:
The Cicero Trilogy by Robert Harris: This series provides a fictionalized account of Cicero's life and the political world of ancient Rome.
Imperium: The first book in the trilogy, it details Cicero's rise as a lawyer. Lustrum (also published as Conspirata): The second book, exploring the power struggles in Rome. Dictator: The third book, focusing on Cicero's later life and struggles during Caesar's dominance. Cicero's Own Writings: While not novels, these works reveal Cicero's thoughts and experiences:
Philosophical Works: Cicero wrote extensively on ethics, philosophy, and the nature of the gods. Speeches and Letters: His powerful speeches and personal correspondence offer insights into his political career and personal life. On the Republic (De Re Publica) and On the Laws (De Legibus): These works present his ideas on governance and law.
Cicero's death--from wiki--scary, violent people.
As reported by Seneca the Elder, according to the historian Aufidius Bassus, Cicero's last words are said to have been:
Ego vero consisto. Accede, veterane, et, si hoc saltim potes recte facere, incide cervicem.
I go no further: approach, veteran soldier, and, if you can at least do so much properly, sever this neck.[124]
He bowed to his captors, leaning his head out of the litter in a gladiatorial gesture to ease the task. By baring his neck and throat to the soldiers, he was indicating that he would not resist. According to Plutarch, Herennius first slew him, then cut off his head. On Antony's instructions his hands, which had penned the Philippics against Antony, were cut off as well; these were nailed along with his head on the Rostra in the Forum Romanum according to the tradition of Marius and Sulla, both of whom had displayed the heads of their enemies in the Forum. Cicero was the only victim of the proscriptions who was displayed in that manner. According to Cassius Dio,[125] in a story often mistakenly attributed to Plutarch, Antony's wife Fulvia took Cicero's head, pulled out his tongue, and jabbed it repeatedly with her hairpin in final revenge against Cicero's power of speech.[126]
I think this explores motivation and interactions the best though the sheer brilliance of Shakepeare's 2 "Roman plays"
can never be denied... Shakespeare must have depended on primary sources Plutarch and Suetonious.
Interestingly,Thornton Wilder and Plutarch were also playwrights.
--
AI Overview
The Ides of March by Thornton Wilder is a novel set in the final months before the assassination of Julius Caesar on March 15, 44 BCE. The novel details the events leading to Caesar's murder and explores the motives of the key players involved. Plot summary Wilder's 1948 epistolary novel is "a fantasia on certain events and persons" rather than a historical reconstruction. Told through a collection of imagined letters, journals, and official documents, the story examines the inner lives of key figures in Caesar's circle. The narrative explores the complex web of political and personal intrigue that leads to Caesar's death and examines themes of destiny versus human freedom. The climax takes place on the day of the assassination, drawing on the famous historical account. Key characters The novel presents a psychological and intimate look at Caesar and those around him: Julius Caesar: Portrayed not just as a powerful ruler, but as a deeply reflective human being contemplating his legacy and the nature of his rule. Cleopatra: Her arrival in Rome creates significant tension, adding to the climate of suspicion and political maneuvering. Marcus Brutus: Initially loyal to Caesar, Brutus is torn by conflicting influences and manipulated by conspirators, creating internal conflict over his decision to join the plot. Clodia Pulcher: A rebellious and influential figure whose tumultuous love affair with the poet Catullus adds to the societal unrest. Other figures: Cicero, Mark Antony, and other historical figures are shown interacting with fictional characters to offer a multifaceted view of Roman society. Consequences and results The novel's exploration of the Ides of March focuses on how the assassination led to the downfall of the Roman Republic and the rise of a new political order. The immediate consequences include: The destabilization of Rome: The assassination triggers chaos and a power vacuum in the Republic, ushering in years of civil war. Punishment of the conspirators: The conspirators, including Brutus and Cassius, are hunted by the forces of Mark Antony and Octavian. They are ultimately defeated at the Battle of Philippi, and many commit suicide. The end of the Republic: The resulting conflicts effectively end the Roman Republic, paving the way for the Roman Empire under Caesar's heir, Octavian. Human drama and themes: Wilder's novel emphasizes the human emotions behind historical events. It explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, ambition, and the philosophical questions about how great leaders and art shape society.
Caesar's sons--AI
AI Overview
Julius Caesar had one biological son, Caesarion, who was never formally recognized by his father
. His other notable "son" was his adopted heir, Octavian, who would become the Emperor Augustus.
Biological son: Caesarion
Name: Ptolemy XV Philopator Philometor Caesar, nicknamed Caesarion ("little Caesar"). Mother: Cleopatra VII, the last pharaoh of Egypt. Life: He was born in 47 BCE, a result of the love affair between Julius Caesar and Cleopatra during Caesar's stay in Egypt. Caesarion reigned as co-ruler of Egypt with his mother from 44 BCE until her death in 30 BCE. Death: He was executed on Octavian's orders shortly after the Roman defeat of Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Octavian viewed Caesarion as a rival to his claim as Caesar's sole heir. Adopted son: Octavian Name: Gaius Octavius Thurinus, who later became Caesar Augustus.
Relation to Caesar: He was Caesar's great-nephew. His mother, Atia, was the daughter of Caesar's sister, Julia Minor. Inheritance: In his will, Caesar posthumously adopted Octavian, naming him his son and sole heir.
Legacy: After defeating Mark Antony and Cleopatra, Octavian became the first Roman emperor, bringing an end to the Roman Republic. He would rule for over 40 years. Other rumored sons Marcus Junius Brutus: The famous assassin of Caesar was rumored to be his illegitimate son with his longtime mistress Servilia. However, historians believe this to be unlikely due to Caesar being only 15 years old when Brutus was born. Decimus Junius Brutus Albinus: Another of Caesar's assassins, Decimus was favored by Caesar and even named as a secondary heir in his will, fueling rumors that he may have been Caesar's illegitimate son.
AI Overview
A definitive novel told strictly from Brutus's point of view is rare. However, Brutus is a central figure in many works of historical fiction about ancient Rome, and a few notable books place his perspective at the forefront
.
Novels featuring Brutus's perspective
Brutus, Murderer of Caesar: A Chronicle of Ideals, Betrayal, and the Fall of Autocracy by Blackburn: This historical fiction novel explores the complex character of Brutus, focusing on the moral and political dilemmas that led to his pivotal role in Caesar's assassination. The narrative follows Brutus from his inner turmoil in the Senate halls to the battlefield, portraying his commitment to the Roman Republic's ideals.
Brutus In the Shadow of Forgiveness by R.J. Scott: Part of "The Tallow Trilogy," this book takes a unique approach to Brutus's story. It follows a Roman soldier named Brutus who, left for dead, is nursed back to health by a woman and must confront his traumatic past and childhood memories.
Brutus Ultor by Michael Field: This older historical fiction novel from 1886 follows Brutus as he navigates the political intrigue of ancient Rome. After returning from a military campaign, he grows disillusioned with Caesar's rise to power and joins the conspiracy against him.
Series that give Brutus a prominent role
Emperor Series by Conn Iggulden: This fictional series follows the lives of Julius Caesar and Brutus from childhood through their deaths, providing Brutus's perspective on the central conflict. The series includes the volumes The Gates of Rome and The Death of Kings.
Masters of Rome Series by Colleen McCullough: While focused on Julius Caesar, this detailed series includes many historical figures from that period, with Brutus as a major character. The narrative examines his shifting relationship with Caesar.
Other notable works featuring Brutus
Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare: Although a play, not a novel, it is the most famous fictional portrayal of Brutus and focuses heavily on his internal conflict. Brutus has far more lines than Caesar, and the central psychological drama revolves around his struggle between honor, patriotism, and friendship.
Brutus: The Noble Conspirator by Kathryn Tempest: For those interested in a deeply researched, non-fiction account that reads like a story, this book delves into the historical records to reveal Brutus's personal struggles and the political conflicts he faced.
AI Overview
Brutus: The Man Behind Caesar's Assassination | HowStuffWorks
No, Brutus was not Julius Caesar's biological son; he was the son of Servilia, a long-time mistress of Caesar, leading to speculation and rumors but also to Caesar viewing Brutus as a father figure and treating him with paternal affection.
Why the confusion?
Servilia's Affair:
Brutus's mother, Servilia, had a prolonged and passionate affair with Julius Caesar. Paternal Affection: Caesar showed significant affection for Brutus and treated him like a son, supporting his career and even pardoning him after he sided against him in the civil war. Rumors and Shakespeare: Ancient historians and playwrights like Plutarch and Shakespeare explored the idea of Brutus being Caesar's son, which fueled the legend. The Reality Brutus's Parents: Brutus was born to Servilia and Marcus Junius Brutus, who was killed by Pompey in 77 BCE. Timing Issues: The timelines make it unlikely Caesar was Brutus's biological father, though not impossible. Father-Figure Dynamic: The strong father-figure bond between Caesar and Brutus made the betrayal at the Ides of March so impactful.
Spartacus and Ben Hur--inluded with AmazonPrime.
Next look for The Ten Commandants, The Robe, Gone with the Wind.
--
An early cave--portent of things to come--
AI Overview
The "Shakespeare in the Park" production of
Julius Caesar in Central Park during the first year of the Trump administration, from May to June 2017, featured the title character in the likeness of Donald Trump. This portrayal, along with the traditional assassination scene, led to a public outcry and significant controversy.
Key aspects of the production and its public reaction:
Trump likeness: The Public Theater's production, directed by Oskar Eustis, depicted Julius Caesar wearing a suit, a red tie, and a blond wig styled like Trump's hair. The character's wife, Calpurnia, also had a Slavic accent, similar to that of Melania Trump.
Controversial scene: The assassination scene, a core part of Shakespeare's play, was staged with the Trump-like Caesar being repeatedly stabbed and killed on stage. News of this, particularly after video clips spread online, caused outrage among Trump's supporters, with some interpreting it as a call for political violence against the sitting president.
Loss of sponsors: The public backlash resulted in corporate sponsors, including Delta Air Lines and Bank of America, withdrawing their funding for the Public Theater. Other companies, like American Express, issued statements distancing themselves from the specific production.
Protests and disruption: The controversy led to protests at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. On June 16, 2017, two right-wing activists stormed the stage during the assassination scene, temporarily halting the performance.
Defense of the production: The Public Theater and many within the arts community defended the staging as a piece of political satire consistent with the long history of reinterpreting Shakespeare to reflect current events. Director Oskar Eustis stated that the play is a cautionary tale against using undemocratic means to defend democracy. He emphasized that the aftermath of Caesar's murder in the play is a disaster for the conspirators and the state.
Judge again blocks Trump guard deployment--Remember the names, like he does.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/05/us/trump-national-guard-california-oregon-newsom.html?utm_source=newsshowcase&utm_medium=gnews&utm_campaign=CDAQm4OBusmf9oWdARjN6r_Y0P-t2qABKg8IACoHCAowjuuKAzCWrzw&utm_content=rundown&gaa_at=la&gaa_n=ASWzDAiU1E-I3rTBpi3ZTtutxZA98c37lTfFP-4C30phEn84SA5Iq0IkyC68Upf2tsJgHS6c6iVcjBBryc9qvNyDkQ2rPGzM&gaa_ts=68e3992d&gaa_sig=ByUiVZ7trr7YWXcuM-KO-x8B1iY9eqygNVnDaUO3CBWxyINi_Hfybq-4DHns12So_ABdZ5jWKqM-Taf7YIhy8g%3D%3D
Copy and paste exerpt below:
Judge Immergut, an appointee of President Trump, called an emergency hearing Sunday, then broadened her restraining order to cover “the relocation, federalization or deployment of members of the National Guard of any state or the District of Columbia in the state of Oregon,” telling Justice Department lawyers that the president was ”in direct contravention” of her order.
The blizzard of moves by the Trump administration, from Texas to California, Illinois to Oregon, has left governors and the courts scrambling to keep pace. First, the administration tried to sidestep Judge Immergut by turning to California. Then the president ordered as many as 400 members of the Texas National Guard to deploy for “federal protection missions” in Portland, Chicago and potentially other cities, according to a letter released by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, on Sunday night.
“We must now start calling this what it is: Trump’s Invasion,” Gov. JB Pritzker of Illinois, a Democrat, said in a statement.
Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas fully backed the deployment.
“You can either fully enforce protection for federal employees or get out of the way and let Texas Guard do it,” he wrote on social media. “No Guard can match the training, skill, and expertise of the Texas National Guard.”
Sunday, October 05, 2025
Kalank--VERY GOOD Indian movie of which there are many on Amazon Prime--It is sort of like the
Merchant and Ivory film, When the Rains Came or Romeo and Juliet.
Set in 1945 in Pakistan before the Partition.
It's also like a sort of opera or rock opera with a lot of Bollywood-style song and dance sequences, but really well-written. Recognizable Ramayana which I have also seen in Burma (fragments) and in Bali--complete with golden deer, magic circle,Laksmana and the monkey army and Hanuman.
It was Zawgyi's article in the Atlantic or his verbal comment when I first heard about it. Thank you, Saya Zawgyi.
In Kalank, everyone is good-looking and it's the Hindu-Muslim romance I have been looking for.like the Buddhist-Muslim love story I am always looking for, but reality belies me. This story also looks like it might end badly.
I stopped watching at this point.
kmk
9-5-2025
Saturday, October 04, 2025
Gladiator II--Ridley Scott production--just magnificent. Now free with membership on Amazon Prime.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gladiator_II
I liked this a lot better than Gladiator I, which I did not understand that well. Saw it in a movie theater.
This one has a better story line. More international and the character's motivations and conflicts better explored.
I don't know Ridley Scott movies that well. Only saw an article on his house in Architectural Digest.
Beginning credits say characters created by one writer, story by 2 other writers and screenplay by a 4th writer.
So that's 4 people.
End credits go on forever--must be hundreds of people, carpenters, sculpters, teams of doctors, nurses, stunts people, and so on and on--animal rights reps. and AFL CIO.
Deserves the high box office returns.
Obviously inspired by the real Spartacus Rebellion--see movie Spartacus and the original novel Spartacus by Howard Fast.
Derek Jacobi of I Claudius fame--read Robert Graves.
What else? Even the pet monkey Dondas has a personality.
But rhino can't be ridden nor trained--
Insurrection by top army general is "interesting."
Twin emperors (step brothers actually) really existed.
Also better than Game of Thrones and I'm glad it's a movie and does not drag on forever and ever.
kmk
10-5-2025
From Amrapali wiki:
Amrapali's possible alliance with Bimbisara has also survived mainly through an oral tradition and has not found its way into the Pali canon of Buddhism. This is because Bimbisara was a great royal patron of Buddhism and his links with Amrapali may throw a negative light on him.[18] Amrapali's mention in the canon also focuses mostly on the later part of her life when she converted to Buddhism.[18]
However, records of Chinese travellers who came to India in search of Buddhist texts have made note of Amrapali's early life and her relationship with Bimbisara. The latter is found in the Chinese Recension of the Buddhist tripitaka.[18] This narrative has been written in the Mahayana tradition and therefore did not have the onus of representing Bimbisara in a positive light.[18] Hence, their relationship is highlighted.
A third set of scriptures which refer to the story of Amrapali, and do so most elaborately, come from the Gilgit area of Kashmir and are therefore known as the Gilgit Manuscripts.[18] These are the Tibetan-Sanskrit scriptures of the Mulasarvastivada branch of Buddhism which hold her in high esteem. However, the negative connotation of being a courtesan is still present.[18] Thus, the cultural memory of a courtesan shows a complex pattern, varying across time and place.
In popular culture
Amrapali has been the subject of three biographical films: Amrapali (1945) starring Sabita Devi, Jagdish Sethi, Prem Adeeb, Amrapali (1959) starring Supriya Devi as Amrapali and Asit Baran as King Ajatashatru,[21] and Amrapali (1966), starring Vyjayanthimala as Amrapali and Sunil Dutt as Emperor Ajatashatru.[citation needed]
Bollywood actress Hema Malini produced, directed, and starred in a television series called Women of India, which depicted the story of Amrapali. The music for the Amrapali segment of the series was composed by Hridaynath Mangeshkar along with Ravindra Jain.
Amrapali has been the subject of various books, including Vaishali Ki Nagarvadhu, a 1948 Hindi novel by Acharya Chatursen, and Ambapali, a 1962 novel by Vimala Raina.[22][23][24] A recent work in English, The Legend of Amrapali: An Enchanting Saga Buried Within the Sands of Time, was completed by author Anurag Anand in 2012.[25][26][27]
A television series, Amrapali, was telecast on DD National in 2002.
Amrapali is also mentioned in the book 'Heroines' by historian writer Ira Mukhoty.[28][29]
See also
Ancient Silk Routes--
The Silk Road was a vast network of land and sea routes connecting the East and West from approximately 130 BCE to 1453 CE, formally established by China's Han Dynasty and named for the highly valued silk traded along the way. More than just a trade route for luxury goods, it was a conduit for cultural exchange, the spread of religions like Buddhism, and the transmission of technological innovations, including gunpowder and the compass. The name "Silk Road" was coined in 1877 by German geographer Ferdinand von Richthofen, though many historians now prefer the term "Silk Routes" to reflect its multiple interconnected paths.
Origins and Establishment
Pre-Silk Road:
Even before the formal establishment, predecessor routes existed, such as the Persian Royal Road, built by the Achaemenid Empire.
Han Dynasty:
The Silk Road was formally established by China's Han Dynasty in 130 BCE after Han Emperor Wu sent envoy Zhang Qian to Central Asia, whose reports opened up trade with the West.
Name Origin:
The name "Silk Road" was coined in 1877 by German geographer Ferdinand von Richthofen to highlight the central role of Chinese silk in the trade, according to History.com.
Key Characteristics
Network of Routes:
The Silk Road was not a single road but an intricate web of land and sea routes spanning thousands of miles, crossing formidable landscapes like the Gobi Desert and Pamir Mountains.
Trade and Exchange:
While silk was a primary commodity, the network also facilitated the exchange of goods such as spices, precious metals, gold, and silver, as well as cultural elements like music, dance, and architecture.
Cultural and Religious Exchange:
The Silk Road was a major conduit for cultural diffusion, notably the spread of Buddhism from India into China and the transmission of new ideas and technologies.
Decline and Legacy
Decline of Land Routes:
The overland routes declined around 1453 CE when the Ottoman Empire closed them off to the West, though the routes had already begun to be replaced by large-scale maritime trade.
Lasting Impact:
The Silk Road left a lasting legacy, shaping world history and commerce, and influencing cultures and societies across Eurasia.
This video explains the history and significance of the Silk Road:
Chinese pilgrims to India. Faxian was the earliest.
AI Overview
First Chinese Pilgrim towards India : Xuanzang or Fa Hein ...
Chinese pilgrims traveled to India primarily for religious purposes, to acquire Buddhist scriptures and visit sacred sites associated with the Buddha. Famous Chinese pilgrims include Fa Xian (Faxian), who journeyed in the 4th and 5th centuries, and Xuanzang (Hsüan-tsang), who traveled in the 7th century. Their detailed travel accounts are invaluable historical sources, providing insights into the history and social conditions of India and the broader Asian region.
Key Chinese Pilgrims to India
Fa Xian (Faxian):
The first well-known Chinese pilgrim to India, he traveled in the late 4th and early 5th centuries CE. His purpose was to collect Buddhist scriptures and visit Buddhist holy sites.
Xuanzang (Hsüan-tsang):
He undertook a significant pilgrimage to India in the 7th century CE. His journey was motivated by the need to clarify discrepancies in Buddhist texts and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist doctrine.
I-Ching (Yijing):
He made a major pilgrimage from 671 to 695 CE. He provided important information on Buddhist scholarship, particularly praising the learning in Srivijaya (modern-day Sumatra).
Reasons for the Pilgrimage
Acquire Scriptures:
Pilgrims like Fa Xian and Xuanzang sought to obtain sacred Buddhist texts and scriptures that were not fully available or accurately translated in China.
Visit Sacred Sites:
The pilgrims traveled to places connected with the life of the Buddha, such as Nalanda, a major Buddhist center of learning.
Deepen Religious Understanding:
They aimed to study and gain a more profound understanding of Buddhist doctrines and rituals in the land where Buddhism originated.
Impact of the Pilgrimages
Historical Records:
The travelogues of these pilgrims, such as Xuanzang's Great Tang Records on the Western Regions, provide crucial historical, social, and religious information about ancient India.
Cultural Exchange:
These journeys fostered cultural and scholarly exchange between China and India, laying the foundations for Sino-Indian relations.
Buddhism in China:
The pilgrims brought back texts, statues, and knowledge that greatly enriched and spread Buddhism throughout East Asia.
When did Chinese roses reach India?
AI Overview
There is evidence of repeat-flowering Chinese roses reaching India as early as the 12th century
. The exact routes and timing were varied and complex.
Key arrivals
12th century: Evidence suggests continuous flowering Chinese roses reached India by this time. A key piece of evidence for this is the Somanatha Pillar, which documents the presence of these early varieties.
19th century: More recent and documented arrivals occurred during this period, likely through trade routes established by European powers.
1820s: The 'Rose Edouard' variety, which is believed to be a natural cross between the Chinese 'Old Blush' and the Autumn Damask, appeared in India. Some theories suggest it arrived via the French territory of Pondicherry.
1824: The Chinese rose 'Parks' Yellow China' was introduced to Europe and was also described as arriving in India.
Context for rose history in India
Mughal period: Many people mistakenly assume roses arrived with the Mughal emperors around the 10th century. However, the roses that the Mughals introduced were primarily Damask roses, which are originally from the Middle East. Ancient connections: Roses have been a significant part of Indian culture and have been cultivated for medicine, culinary arts, and other purposes for centuries. The arrival of repeat-flowering Chinese varieties added to an already rich tradition.
Movie versions of Shakespeare's play Caesar.=
AI Overview
There are several movie versions of William Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar, including Joseph L. Mankiewicz's 1953 MGM film starring Marlon Brando and James Mason, as well as a modern gangster version from 2009. Other adaptations include a 1950 sound version with Charlton Heston, a modern business setting in An Honourable Murder (1960), and various BBC television versions.
Notable Film Versions
William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar (1953): Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, this MGM film stars Marlon Brando as Mark Antony, James Mason as Brutus, and John Gielgud as Cassius.
Julius Caesar (1950): This version was directed by David Bradley and is notable as the first sound film adaptation of the play, with Charlton Heston in the cast.
Julius Caesar (Video 2009): A modern, black and white gangster take on the play.
An Honourable Murder (1960): This film transposed the play into a modern business environment.
Where to Watch
The 1953 film is available on Netflix.
It is also available to purchase or rent on other platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.
Other Adaptations
Television:
There are several BBC adaptations, including a version from 1969 as part of the Play of the Month series.
Modern Interpretations:
Some adaptations have reimagined the play's story in different settings, such as the 2009 gangster film or the 1960 film An Honourable Murder.
(Bondi) asks for "large beefy" to arrest Comey--before court appearance--
Republicans are relishing a role reversal in the shutdown fight. Can Trump keep them united?
https://www.aol.com/articles/fbi-weighing-perp-walk-comey-015030032.html
end
Friday, October 03, 2025
Didn't really work out--Kibbutzim--
AI Overview
The kibbutz: 100 years old and facing an uncertain future ...
Israeli kibbutzim are communal settlements that were originally founded on principles of social justice, equality, and collective ownership, with residents sharing labor and resources. The first kibbutz, Kibbutz Degania, was established in 1910, and the movement was vital to the early state of Israel. While the traditional model with communal child-rearing and shared property has evolved, many kibbutzim still exist, with some privatizing and others continuing as collective communities.
Founding and Ideals
A Utopian Vision: The kibbutz was envisioned as a utopian socialist society.
Zionism and Pioneering: Many early members were young Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe who came to reclaim the land and forge a new life for themselves.
Community of Equals: The founders sought to create a new society based on mutual aid, equality, and cooperation.
The Traditional Model
Shared Labor and Property: Residents worked for the kibbutz, and all property was owned collectively.
Communal Child-Rearing: In many early kibbutzim, children were raised in communal children's houses, fostering a principle of equality and communal responsibility.
Decision-Making: Decisions were made democratically by all members.
Evolution of the Kibbutz
The Rise of Capitalism:
The establishment of the state of Israel, with its increasing bureaucracy and shift towards capitalism, influenced the kibbutz movement.
Privatization:
Many kibbutzim have since undergone changes, with some privatizing and adopting more capitalist structures, while others have evolved into holiday retreats or eco-villages.
Modern Kibbutzim:
Today, there are religious, green, and even urban kibbutzim, showing the movement's adaptability.
Contemporary Kibbutzim
Continued Existence: Over 125,000 people live in kibbutzim in Israel today.
Variety in Structure: While some kibbutzim remain deeply collective, others now allow members more individual autonomy and financial independence, distributing income based on household size.
Economic Activities: Many kibbutzim now run factories and are involved in industrialized agriculture, with some even listed on the stock exchange.
Novels set in Israeli kibbutzim--
AI Overview
Novels set on Israeli kibbutzim explore communal life, ideology, and personal identity, including Amos Oz's A Perfect Peace and Elsewhere, Perhaps, and memoirs like Yael Neeman's We Were the Future. Other notable examples are Lynne Reid Banks's One More River, which follows a British volunteer, and Bethany Ball's What to Do About the Solomons, a contemporary novel set on a kibbutz.
By Amos Oz
A Perfect Peace
(EBSCO): Explores the complexities and eventual compromises within a collective community against a backdrop of shifting Israeli politics.
Elsewhere, Perhaps
(EBSCO): Set near the Jordanian border, this novel examines themes of memory, relationships, and the individual within a communal framework.
A Tale of Love and Darkness
(Alibris): A memoir that recounts Oz's journey through a kibbutz and the broader political shifts in Israel after the nation's birth.
By Other Authors
One More River
by Lynne Reid Banks: A story about a young British woman who volunteers on a kibbutz and experiences the unique challenges and rewards of kibbutz life.
We Were the Future
by Yael Neeman: A memoir reflecting on the author's childhood and experiences within a kibbutz community.
What to Do About the Solomons
by Bethany Ball: A contemporary story set on a kibbutz, offering a modern perspective on its evolving culture and challenges.
Growing Up Below Sea Level: A Kibbutz Childhood
by Rachel Biale: A memoir that details the experience of growing up in a kibbutz.
A Pigeon and a Boy
by David Grossman: While not solely set on a kibbutz, it's a significant work from an Israeli author exploring the complex aftermath of the Yom Kippur War and the emotional toll on kibbutz members.
Considerations When Reading Kibbutz Novels
Historical Context:
Many of these novels are tied to specific periods of Israeli history, from the establishment of the state to more contemporary times.
Ideology vs. Reality:
Novels often portray the tension between the utopian ideals of kibbutz life and the practical realities and personal sacrifices of communal living.
Personal vs. Collective Identity:
A recurring theme is how individuals navigate their own desires and identities within a system that emphasizes the collective good.
I bought Kostova but didn't like the dracula component--so gave it away on my travels.
AI Overview
+4
Novels set in Romania include classic and modern literature spanning genres from horror to historical fiction, with popular titles being Bram Stoker's Dracula, Herta Müller's The Land of Green Plums, and Ruta Sepetys's I Must Betray You, which explores the Communist era. Other notable works are Mircea Eliade's Miss Christina and Elizabeth Kostova's The Historian, which delve into Romanian mythology and folklore.
Classics & Folklore:
Dracula
.
by Bram Stoker This quintessential vampire novel features the legendary count from Romania, basing his character on the real-life historical figure Vlad Dracula.
The Carpathian Castle
.
by Jules Verne This 19th-century gothic novel is set in the Carpathian Mountains and explores mystery and a fantastical castle, according to Goodreads.
Miss Christina
.
by Mircea Eliade A horror story by the Romanian philosopher and author, this novel is steeped in ancient Romanian folk mythology.
Historical & Political Fiction:
I Must Betray You
by Ruta Sepetys Set in 1989 Romania under communist rule, this YA historical novel follows a young man involved with the secret police, as noted by Read Brightly.
The Land of Green Plums
by Herta Müller This novel by the Nobel Prize winner explores the life and political repression under the Ceaușescu regime, as mentioned on Goodreads.
Revolution 1989
by Revolution 1989 A work that depicts the fall of the Soviet Empire, as listed in one source.
Modern & Other Works:
The Historian
by Elizabeth Kostova This contemporary novel offers a modern take on the Dracula legend, blending historical research with a gripping narrative.
Under a Red Sky
by Haya Leah Molnar This book provides another account of life in communist Romania.
The Ballad of the Whiskey Robber
by Julian Rubinstein This non-fiction work details bank robberies and crime during the 1990s in post-communist Romania, based on information from Reddit users.
Romanian individuals who fled Ceausecu regime--
AI Overview
Hundreds of thousands of people left Romania during Nicolae Ceaușescu's dictatorship due to intense political repression, economic hardship, and persecution of ethnic minorities
. Prominent escapees included artists, intellectuals, and athletes, along with a mass exodus of ethnic Germans and Jewish citizens.
Prominent figures who defected
Nadia Comăneci: The world-famous Olympic gymnast, who scored the first perfect 10, defected to the United States in 1989, just weeks before the revolution. Her escape brought massive international attention to the repressive Romanian government.
Richard Wurmbrand: A Lutheran priest of Jewish descent, Wurmbrand was imprisoned and tortured by the communist regime for his faith. After being ransomed for $10,000, he and his wife emigrated to the U.S., where he founded the Christian human rights organization Voice of the Martyrs.
Paul Goma: A Romanian writer and dissident, Goma was imprisoned and later expelled from the country for protesting against the regime. He settled in France, where he continued to write and criticize the government.
Doina Cornea: A university lecturer and vocal dissident, Cornea was one of the country's most prominent critics of the Ceaușescu regime. She was fired from her teaching position and placed under house arrest for her anti-communist activities, becoming a symbol of resistance.
Ethnic minorities who emigrated The communist regime sold the freedom of its ethnic minorities, treating them as commodities to be traded for hard currency. Ethnic Germans: Tens of thousands of German-Romanians, including Transylvanian Saxons and Banat Swabians, were "bought back" by the West German government for cash throughout the 1970s and 1980s. This was part of a "remigration movement" that led to a mass exodus following the 1989 revolution, almost completely eradicating their centuries-old culture in Romania. Jews: Under both Gheorghiu-Dej and Ceaușescu, the government was paid by the Israeli government to allow Jewish citizens to emigrate. This arrangement led to the mass emigration of hundreds of thousands of Jews, with the regime receiving thousands of dollars per person. Ordinary people who escaped For average Romanian citizens, escaping the country was exceptionally difficult and life-threatening. Dangerous crossings: Illegal attempts to cross the border increased significantly during the 1980s. Many tried to swim the Danube into Yugoslavia, a perilous journey where they risked drowning or being shot by border guards. Those caught faced imprisonment, and their families often faced repercussions. Family members punished: For those who successfully defected, their families who remained in Romania were punished by the Securitate, the communist secret police. Difficult conditions: Ordinary people faced severe shortages of food, medicine, and heat, pushing many to risk their lives for a chance at a better life abroad. By 1989, an estimated 50,000 Romanians managed to flee illegally, taking advantage of Hungary's opened borde
By Shoon Naing, Reuters, "Myanmar's reclusive general turns jet-setter."
I was introduced to Shoon Naing by Irrawaddy editor at a Chiangmai Art Show in 2006.
"Shoon Naing," Ko Aung Zaw said.
Before that I thought she was a man. Now, a slim, petite woman smiled at me.
Reuters must have recruited her--belated Congrats.
kmk
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/myanmars-reclusive-general-turns-jet-setter-quest-election-backing-2025-10-03/
Thursday, October 02, 2025
Novels--humans changing into animals--
AI Overview
Novels where all humans become animals are uncommon, but stories featuring mass transformation include the speculative fiction novel "All Tomorrows" by C. M. Kösemen, which depicts future human species evolving and transforming, and the short story collection "Animal Wife" by Lara Ehrlich, with many stories of women and girls transforming. Other narratives explore this theme through metamorphosis, such as Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" where one man becomes a beetle, or myths like the Children of Lir, featured in novels like Juliet Marillier's Daughter of Prophecy, where brothers are turned into swans.
Here are some specific examples and related themes:
All Tomorrows
(by C. M. Kösemen): This science fiction work explores a distant future where humans evolve through natural processes and genetic engineering into various future human species.
The Metamorphosis (by Franz Kafka): This novella focuses on a man who transforms into a giant insect, exploring themes of family and alienation. Animal Wife (by Lara Ehrlich): A collection of short stories where women and girls transform into animals, often seeking liberation. The Children of Lir: This Irish myth, which appears in retellings like Juliet Marillier's Daughter of Prophecy, tells the story of siblings transformed into swans, a common trope of human-to-animal transformation. The Vegetarian (by Han Kang): While not a total transformation, this novel features a woman who develops a profound connection to plants and moves away from her human life. The Island of Doctor Moreau (by H. G. Wells): In this classic science fiction novel, a scientist conducts experiments, creating human-animal hybrids rather than transforming entire populations.
Colleen McCullough's Rome Series--I think I read/have Caesar's Women and I remember her drawings--but don't know where it is among my boxes.
Meanwhile in 30 years since I've read and seen I Claudius by Robert Graves (2 books) and the Rome documentaries, so I understand it all better.
SPQR
Conn Iggulden's Caesar.
https://compulsiveoverreader.wordpress.com/2008/08/29/masters-of-rome-series-by-colleen-mccullough/
Currently re-reading McCullough's Caesar.
She does a fantasatic job, so detailed--so far got to the red-headed woman (whom I remember) --
I also read a lot about the Druids, the British tribes, Buddica or Boadicia--and similar TV series--so I have the Roman empire straighter in my head.
For a woman, based on myself,I feel it's hardest to write battle scenes, but McCullough does it with the greatest of ease--the loss of the silver eagle standard and one of the legions in Gaul, the warring tribes some of whom have become C's allies--horses.
So I think maybe I will read them all.
Yes, 781 pages this and almost 100 pages of glossary.
I remember my workshop mates not understanding Burmese words--
A debate some time ago on Himal about end notes.
Abraham Verghese saying "You can't white a book like this (his) without end notes (Covenant and Cutting for Stone--great novels)
And a Himal panel on which either a writer or an agent argued against notes--but I still put them in.
For samples I take them out of the requisite 10 to 50 pages agents ask for with the initial query.
Part of my problem is filing.
And the naming of files, and forgetting what I named them.
And also sometimes for decades at a time,I get discouraged and either don't file properly or don't update my cv properly, and this morning I accidentally erased the dates of some of the readings/presentations/art exhibitions I put on.
It's not easy being a writer unless you have a partner who does everything for you, or a village.
I'm always looking around, but it's not easy.
Sometimes I contract out but a lot of people don't reach my exacting standards.
So I end up doing everything myself
Or they get old and sick or die.
Sigh sigh sigh.
"It's not easy being green."
Kermit the Frog on Sesame Street.
Kyi May Kaung
10-2-2025
Romanian male first names
Romanian names for boys
From sources across the web
Alexandru
Andrei
Florin
Radu
Bogdan
Ioan
Vasile
Vlad
Adrian
Alin
Anton
Atanase
Avram
Constantin
Anatolië
Anghel
Aurel
Romanian surnames--
Category:Romanian-language surnames
Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Category:Romanian-la...
Pages in category "Romanian-language surnames". The following 200 pages are in this category, out of approximately 770 total.
AI Overview
+7
Common Romanian surnames include those derived from occupations like Pop (priest) and Fieraru (smith), patronymics such as Popescu (son of Pop), and descriptive names from colors like Albu (white) and Roșu (red). Other surnames originate from animals like Lupu (wolf), plants, or even geographical features. Many surnames are formed using the suffixes -escu and -eanu.
Common Romanian Surnames
Here is a list of some common Romanian surnames:
Popescu, Popa, Ionescu, Stoica, Dumitrescu, Mocanu, Georgescu, Stănescu, Preda, Gheorghiu, and Tudor.
Types of Romanian Surnames
Occupational: Names that indicate a person's profession.
Ciobanu: Shepherd
Croitoru: Tailor
Dascalu: Teacher
Fieraru: Blacksmith
Moraru: Miller
Patronymic: Names formed from the father's given name, often with the suffix -escu or -eanu.
Popescu: Son of Pop (priest)
Descriptive: Names based on physical characteristics.
Albu: White
Roșu: Red
Bălan: Blond
From Animals and Plants: Former nicknames based on animals or plants.
Lupu: Wolf
Ursu: Bear
From Given Names: Surnames derived from popular first names, like Andrei or Maria.
From Foreign Languages: Surnames adopted from other cultures, such as German, Hungarian, or Ukrainian, are also present.
If you received this (below) in an email--you may fwd this--WITHOUT MY email address. Except for the editor's comments--which will show
you how to work with editors, it has, after all, been published already.
Woman to woman,I always wanted her to leave--I remember constantly asking PM in Exile, Mathematician Dr. Sein Win,since 1997 when I first met him.
What have you heard? Is she well? Do you have contingency plans to get her out?
Now the junta means to kill her with criminal neglect.
And the international press abandoned her.
They thought she was a real leader--who had real power, but she did not.
When she won that most recent(faux) election--one person said on Facebook--"My puppet and yours, but mine dances prettier."
The press is always like this, first they put you on a pedestal,then they pull you down and see your feet of clay.
She had no real power--How corrupt can she be compared to the world class ones??
Have you no brain.
kmk
10-2-2025
Final edit of A Strange Collection of Clear Victories--The International Gallerie Magazine archive does not allow you to read the entire article--I think my print copy was lost in a fire-- in another city--not my own home.
FINAL EDIT
AUNG SAN SUU KYI: A STRANGE COLLECTION OF CLEAR VICTORIES?
Intro:
Known as one of the world's most prominent dissidents and political prisoners, ‘The Lady’ as she is referred to outside her country, and inside, as Daw [Aunt] Aung San Suu Kyi, lived in under house arrest for more than 15 years. As leader of the NLD, National League for Democracy, she has opposed the 50 years of military regime in Burma while consistently championing her belief in democracy, which was shaped during her student years in India. Her life is a chronicle of challenges she has experienced and overcome with unmatched courage. Influenced by the tenets of Buddhism and Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence, she is today, almost ascetic in her approach to life and politics. Yet, she can be entirely down-to-earth, for instance, in her criticism of the Indian Governement. During her recent visit here, she admonished it for having strayed away from Gandhian ideals and also for not having supported Burma in its struggle for democracy. [HERE, PLEASE ADD BRIEFLY, why you call hers A STRANGE collection of clear victories. I like the title but do not want to give off wrong signals This article’s title is based on her name – and its meaning in the Burmese language. “San” means strange or unusual. A lone woman standing up in non-violence against an entrenched military regime is certainly extraordinary. ]
As a dissident activist, Aung San Suu Kyi’s is the sum of a life lived with true integrity and grace.
During his historic six-hour visit to Rangoon, Burma, newly re-elected U.S. President Barack Obama mispronounced Aung San Suu Kyi’s name twice, calling her “Aung Yann Suu Kyi” – one almost saw Suu Kyi hiding her wince.
Yann means “reckless.”
Her real name is:
Aung San — from her famous father — the George Washington of Burma.
Aung = victory or victorious.
San= strange, glorious or unique, rare or scarce.
Suu — her own given name, based on the day of the week on which she was born, and the name of Aung San’s mother, whose father was hanged by the British during the Saya San uprising of 1920.
Kyi – based on her mother’s Monday-born name. Kyi in Burmese means “clear”.
As Jack Healey, the former director of Amnesty International said, “We should learn how to pronounce her name correctly.”
Be that as it may, on Nov 13, 2010, a week after the rigged election, the junta released her from her third bout of house arrest, which had started from a roadside ambush — and is now known as the Depayin Massacre.
Daw Suu was truly between a rock and a hard place. She cannot be blamed for having sent out feelers that she could help get sanctions lifted in exchange for being treated better by the junta, now hiding behind its front man, the so-called “moderate” PM turned President.
Thein Sein went to see her and for the first time in junta history, complimented her in a public space saying, "As a Myanmar citizen, I would like to congratulate her for the honors she has received in this country in recognition of her efforts for democracy."
When Obama called her last year, she had only to say “I trust Thein Sein. I think I can work with him,” for the U.S. President to send Secretary of State Mrs. Hilary Clinton to meet with Aung San Suu Kyi.
This unleashed an unreasonable euphoria which has only now started to wear thin.
On Nov 29, at 3 AM, the junta used deadly force to quell workers and miners demonstrating against the Chinese-owned Wampau copper mine in Letpadaung Township near Monywa. President Thein Sein’s office says it [only] used tear gas and water hoses “in line with international standards” but Radio Free Asia reports an expert saying “there is no way tear gas can start fires” and others have noted the strange nature of the burns, which might denote some kind of chemical weapon. There are now rumors that white phosphorus was used. Eighty monk demonstrators are reported wounded and thirty hospitalised.
Aung San Suu Kyi went to Monywa and gave a speech in which she swore to help resolve the issue peacefully.
Earlier, BBC 4 uncovered mass graves in Western Burma, where a genocide against the Muslim Rohingya community has been going on since June, even as Suu Kyi travelled internationally and gave impeccable speeches. In the northeast of Burma, the junta, now in civilian dress, broke a 17 year ceasefire.
What are the Lady’s prospects in this scorching situation?
One should note, she did not win a majority in the April 1 “April Fools’ Day” by-elections — she won the majority of the few seats she and her party were allowed to contest. Nevertheless, she campaigned all over the country and won once again — demonstrating her immense popularity.
But it is not about popularity, is it?
It is about what the junta allows to happen in Burma.
What seems to have happened is due to a coincidence of wants and needs by major actors: Suu Kyi’s situation was a no-win one.
The junta itself was said to have been scared of what happened in the Middle East, and wanted an exit and an out.
The USA and Europe are in the throes of a major recession — the United States itself hugely indebted to China, which is holding the bulk of its national debt or treasury bills. The foreign media and the Burmese exile media are compromised as they have apparently traded access for “doing PR for the Junta.”
The Lady is losing patience again — she said, “Nothing will happen if the constitution is not changed.” She also said — “The military is already the most powerful entity in the country. We in the parliament [hluttaw] should not make decisions that increase its power.”
Her prospects over-all are not good.
One can argue that they never were.
She can surely win in 2015. But then, what?
Every day on Burmese language news from VOA [Voice of America] and RFA [Radio Free Asia], we see tearful farmers whose land has been taken by the thousands of acres by the junta cronies. We see miners in equal desperation. We see workers, each one a Fantine out of Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables, who sold her hair, her teeth and her body to stay alive.
Maybe the junta will let Suu Kyi win, and then let her “handle” these deep-seated structural and systemic changes.
Then everyone will hate her. Already there’s a growing chorus of those who think she did not speak up forcibly enough about the plight of the Rohingya.
Like all politicians, she will, when she comes to power, have to pay off supporters. Then she can easily be accused of corruption as Benazir Bhutto was.
I don’t wish to sound flippant or disrespectful — she is one of my greatest heroes.
But some days I think she should leave mainstream politics and carve out a life for herself as an international figure who is deeply respected. There are speculations about the current government and Aung San Suu Kyi’s equation with it. A recent edition of The Irrawaddy highlights the protest demonstrations against a Chinese-owned copper mine in Kyaukpadaung, Burma, quelled with the junta's old style pre-dawn raid.
Is this "democracy?"
Aung San Suu Kyi at first declined to condemn the junta’s use of force but has since done so.
One commentator says she is now in a zone of half-truths and there are attempts at co-opting her further.
For her safety, I think perhaps she should leave for other engagements; there are opportunities in heading a Burma Foundation overseas like the NCGUB (National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma) which had its own think tank division, or in academia, where there is a Chair of Democracy in her honour at the University of Kentucky in Louisville.
She should live and work overseas, even teach sometimes - as His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Amartya Sen do – or head a foundation like former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter.
This will be controversial. There will be a lot of people who want Daw Suu Kyi to do it all; take the risks and do all the heavy lifting.
I may be criticised for my views but I say it from the perspective of an exiled dissenter, and in the hope of a long life for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
Kyi May Kaung—
For International Gallerie, Mumbai.
2012
Praise for Black Rice--from ko ko thett.
Review of Black Rice by Kyi May Kaung
Myanmar Times, 22 July 2013
https://www.kokothett.com/blank-3
Black Rice by Burma-born author and political economist Dr. Kyi May Kaung, first published in the spring 2007 issue of Northern Virginia Review, has been released in print and e-book formats. It is a meticulously crafted bite-sized delight - bite-sized because you wouldn't even know how it dissolves on your literary palate until you come to realize you have savoured it in one sitting, wanting for more.
Today, Oct 2, is Mohandas K.Gandhi's birthday. Listen to his Message in his actual voice here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahatma_Gandhi#Early_life_and_background
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahatma_Gandhi#Early_life_and_background
Watch the movie Gandhi.
I liked this movie, but my friend and colleague Joyce Pressley--no relatiion to Elvis, did not. She said, "It does not depict his relationship to women."
Joyce and I received our doctorates from Penn at the same commencement ceremony.
She was a Fulbright scholar in India and sometimes displayed Indian mannerisms, which I thought very cute. She was the only real friend I made at Penn.
I was at my part time job which she found for me designing an on campus security questionaire when Challenger exploded (we saw it on TV) and she started to cry.
Kyi May Kaung
10-2-2025
Wednesday, October 01, 2025
What are ETFs
AI Overview
An ETF, or exchange-traded fund, is a type of investment fund that holds a diverse basket of assets like stocks, bonds, or commodities. It's unique because it trades on stock exchanges like individual stocks throughout the trading day, not just once a day like mutual funds. ETFs offer investors a simple way to diversify their investments, often at a low cost, and they typically track a market index, sector, or theme.
How ETFs work
Pooled Investments:
An ETF pools money from many investors to buy a diversified portfolio of underlying securities.
Index Tracking:
Most ETFs are designed to track a specific market index, like the S&P 500, or a particular sector, such as technology or energy. Exchange Trading: Investors buy and sell ETF shares on a stock exchange through a broker, similar to how they would trade shares of any publicly traded company. Price Fluctuation: The price of an ETF share fluctuates throughout the trading day, based on supply and demand for the fund. Key characteristics Diversification: ETFs provide instant diversification by giving investors exposure to many different investments at once. Affordability: Many ETFs have lower fees (expense ratios) compared to traditional investment products, and they can reduce brokerage costs. Liquidity: Because they trade like stocks, ETFs can be bought and sold easily during market hours. Transparency: An ETF's holdings are generally disclosed daily, making them transparent. Why investors use ETFs Simplicity: They provide an easy way to invest in a broad range of assets without needing to buy each security individually. Accessibility: They are a building block for diversified portfolios, helping investors match their financial goals, such as growth or income. Flexibility: Investors can choose ETFs that align with their investment objectives, from tracking major stock markets to focusing on specific industries or bond types.
Be aware AI is sometimes wrong--and all stock trades are not FDIC insured--only risk what you can bear to lose.
AI Overview
Alphabet (GOOGL) stock is performing well, with significant stock price increases over the past year and year-to-date due to strong overall business performance, including the rapid growth of Google Cloud and revenue from YouTube and search. The company recently saw its stock hit a record high after a ruling in an antitrust case, which eliminated a major concern for investors and boosted its market capitalization by $230 billion.
Key Stock Performance & Outlook
Strong Growth: The stock has increased significantly, with a 58.9% rise over the past year and 26.8% year-to-date as of September 2025. Positive Analyst Sentiment: Wall Street analysts generally have a positive outlook, with most raising their price targets after the second quarter of 2025, citing strong cloud growth and AI potential. Antitrust Ruling Boost: A recent antitrust ruling that found the company largely guilty of monopolistic practices but did not force a breakup of core assets like Chrome and Android led to a surge in the stock price. Factors Driving Performance Google Cloud and YouTube: These segments are experiencing rapid growth and improving margins, contributing to overall strong business performance. AI Potential: The long-term potential of Alphabet's engagement with artificial intelligence is a key factor in analyst targets and positive outlook. Strong Financials: The company reported strong Q2 2025 results, with a 14% increase in revenue and a 19% rise in net income. Insider Trading Net Sales by Insiders: Over the past six months, insiders have sold 110 shares of GOOGL stock, with no purchases, indicating a trend of insider selling rather than buying, according to Quiver Quantitative. Notable Sellers: CEO Sundar Pichai has been a prominent seller, selling 390,000 shares for an estimated $72.3 million in the last six months, according to Quiver Quantitative.
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Pynchon--best (1) to worst #9.
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/aug/18/from-v-to-vineland-and-inherent-vice-thomas-pynchons-books-ranked
Balinese New Year and Ogoh Ogoh.
AI Overview
Ogoh-Ogoh - 15 Best Places to see Ogoh-Ogoh Parades in Bali
Ogoh-ogoh are large, frightening demon-like statues, crafted from materials like paper, bamboo, and foam, that are paraded through the streets of Bali the night before the Nyepi holiday. The parades symbolize the banishment of negative energy and spirits from the community, culminating in the burning of the effigies to cleanse the island before the solemn Nyepi, Bali's silent day of reflection. The creation of these elaborate figures brings the community together through a collaborative art and tradition.
What are Ogoh-Ogoh?
Giant puppets:
Ogoh-ogoh are large, often grotesque, effigies representing evil spirits, demons, and other negative forces.
Community creation:
Local community groups, known as banjars, spend months creating these detailed figures from materials like paper, bamboo, and foam.
Art and tradition:
The process is a display of creativity and community spirit, with young people and volunteers working together to bring their visions to life.
The Ogoh-Ogoh Parade
Symbolic procession: The parades occur on the night before Nyepi, a Balinese Hindu holiday. Cleansing the community: The parading ogoh-ogoh are meant to represent all forms of negativity and vice within society and the mind. Ceremonial burning: At the end of the parade, the statues are often set ablaze in a symbolic act of destroying evil and purifying the village. Electrifying atmosphere: The parades are a vibrant, loud, and chaotic event, filled with the sounds of gamelan music, dancers in costume, and fireworks. Significance of Ogoh-Ogoh Spiritual purification: The tradition serves as a spiritual ritual to drive out negative influences and ensure peace before the reflective Nyepi. Community unity: The collaborative effort in creating the figures fosters a strong sense of togetherness within the community. Artistic expression: The ogoh-ogoh are seen as a form of street theater and a competitive art form, showcasing the artistic talent and imagination of the Balinese people.
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