LINES OF THE DAY

". . . But the past does not exist independently from the present. Indeed, the past is only past because there is a present, just as I can point to something over there only because I am here. But nothing is inherently over there or here. In that sense, the past has no content. The past -- or more accurately, pastness -- is a position. Thus, in no way can we identify the past as past." p. 15

". . . But we may want to keep in mind that deeds and words are not as distinguishable as often we presume. History does not belong only to its narrators, professional or amateur. While some of us debate what history is or was, others take it into their own hands." p. 153

Silencing the Past: Power and the Production of History (1995) by Michel-Rolph Trouillot

Thursday, May 5, 2011

The House in New Orlreans

Some of the people who put on Barcelona's annual Jazz Festival are in New Orleans for the first time, for New Orleans's current Jazz Fest. These are friends as well as colleagues.
Last night they called to say they were sorry they'd left TWTMNO and TYBTF back in Barcelona, but they'd run out of baggage room and weight, so they did. Now that they are on the ground and experiencing New Orleans for themselves -- loving it, hey, NO still charms, ensorcels and bespells -- they are crazy to see some of the places described in the books, particularly the house we lived in while there, which plays such a role in TYBTF. They asked for the address and directions, because, they said, "We are going there to put up a symbolic plaque honoring you for bringing such understanding to New Orleans, its culture and its music."

We said, "Um, probably not a good idea. The owner probably would shoot you."

We're starting to pack up the first load of things to take back to NYC, when el V goes tomorrow. I seem have gotten sick. I have the party for the neighbors and other of the Ladies who became friends here tomorrow to get ready for too.

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