Words from the Past and in the Future

Annamaria on Monday

Eventually, all novels become historical fiction.

I have taught myself not to smirk when I hear people tell me they dislike historical fiction, but when asked if they enjoy the great masterpieces of English literature, they say yes. Dickens? "Yes! I love him."  Mark Twain? "Oh, yes!"  Jane Austen? "My absolute favorite!"

If they, as I do, enjoy such works, then are reading historical fiction.  No?  And to so so, they have had to learn what certain words meant in the past, meanings the words no longer carry,

Let's take Austen, as a for instance.  She uses the word "stupid." But to her, it did not carry the pejorative meaning it does today.  To Jane, a "stupid" person had nothing to say, not because of lack of intelligence, but lack of an opinion, or willingness to share an opinion or anything interesting to speak about.

Historical novelists writing about the past for contemporary audiences have make choices when it comes to word usage.  For me, what I try to do is to use language in a way that readers will feel themselves iπ the past, without stymieing them with words they know not at all. "Untoward," for instance, is no longer in common use, but it can -in context - express an idea but do so in an old fashioned way.  Sometimes, thinking to the apt word is fun.  As in using "oldfangled" an out-of-date word that describes an out-of-date technolog.

There are words I know from my research into times past that I don't foist on 21at Century readers.  Here are a few and what they mean:

Chiffarobe

My grandmother had one

Antimacassar

Macassar Oil

Then there are words past and present that change depending on where the story is set.  For instance, the word for diagonally or obliquely positioned was "catty-corner" in my native New Jersey, but is "kitty-corner" in a lot of the US, "caddy-corner" in some places, and "catawanpus" is parts of the Midwest and South .

In most of the English-speaking world people

 "stand in line" but here in NY-NJ, we "stand

 on line."

Regionalisms like these  are probably getting

 lost in the internet shuffle, but some of them,

 I imagine, are hanging on. For instance...

This might be called "pop," soda" or "tonic"

And this might be called a "turnpike" or a "freeway" or a

 "highway."

This might be called a "hero" or a "hoagie"or a "grinder"

 or a "subway" or a "sub." . 

I wonder if the historical novelist's of the future will get them right.  Or if anyone will know.  Or care.  

   

  

How Folks Abroad Are Viewing America's Presidential Election

Brady Kiesling

 

Saturday––Jeff

 

I’ve been mulling over this question for quite a while. It’s hard not to what with practically every non-American you meet wanting to know “What’s happening in America?” and battalions of American visitors stand ready to unload their political opinions on anyone willing to listen—or not.

 

In other words, it’s sort of what it’s like back home in America.  Which is why I decided to spend the run-up to November 5^th isolated in Europe far from the Sturm und Drang of it all.

 

Ah, the best laid plans.  No such luck.  All the world is fixed on our election.  In truth, many I meet seem more concerned about the outcome and aware of the issues at stake than my fellow Americans.

 

So, I thought I’d share this opinion piece written for Ekathimerini, Greece’s “paper of record,” by Brady Kiesling, titled “New Hope in the United States.”  Brady is a former US Diplomat, and chair of Greece’s Democrats Abroad, the overseas arm of the Democratic Party.  I think you can guess who he’s voting for, but here’s Brady’s take on where the election stands.

 

There’s a new wave of optimism in America with Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate for US president. This matters for America, for the world and for Greece.

 

At the beginning of July, European politicians and journalists were unhappily predicting the return of a president who despises NATO, treats climate change as a hoax, promotes global inequality, and wishes to return women to the role they played when he was a child in the 1950s. But in the few short weeks since she entered the race, Harris has come from behind to build a small but clear lead over former president Donald J. Trump both in national polling and in swing states.

 

We see a transformed political dynamic, reflected in record levels of Democratic Party fundraising and swelling volunteer numbers; we see it in increased voter engagement; we see it in how independent voters are re-evaluating their interests. The change is palpable, including among the members of Democrats Abroad here in Greece.

 

In just two months, Americans will go to the polls. The election will be very close, despite the Harris-Walz ticket’s comfortable lead in the popular vote. Smaller, conservative states have a built-in advantage in the electoral college. For pragmatic, humane policies to prevail in the next US administration, US citizens abroad will need to vote in record numbers.

 

The estimated 70,000 to 100,000 American citizens in Greece could determine the outcome of this year’s presidential election. On election night in 2020, you may remember Trump’s apparent lead early in the vote count. It was the ballots counted last, the ones cast by Americans living abroad, that decided the US presidential election in Arizona and Georgia. Joe Biden’s margin of victory in Arizona was 10,457 votes and the number of overseas ballots received was 18,435. The numbers for Georgia were similar.

 

Your vote matters, in other words, and not only in the clear choice between Trump and Harris. For women in particular, much is on the line. Their right to make decisions about their own bodies, a fundamental freedom, has been stripped away by a Republican-controlled Supreme Court and “conservative” state legislatures, in defiance of the will of the majority of American voters. In a number of states – Arizona, Missouri, Florida, South Dakota, Colorado, New York, Maryland and Nevada – citizens get to decide this November whether to enshrine women’s rights in their state constitutions. Your voice in these state races will be significant as well. Only by electing Democratic members of Congress and state legislatures can we hope to defend the hard-won freedoms of ordinary American citizens.

 

The abortion ban is only the most obvious example of how the Republican Party has veered into extremism at Trump’s behest. The mob that stormed the Capitol to overturn the election result does not represent mainstream America. We instinctively share the disgust of the US Army at Trump’s misuse of our National Cemeteries and dead heroes for political theater.

 

Voters want a Federal Election Commission with teeth, one that will tell them who are the billionaires funding Donald Trump’s campaign, and what – apart from his legal fees – those contributions are paying for. At a more basic level, parents want their children at school to be allowed to read books chosen by librarians, not politicians, and to learn US history taught by actual teachers.

 

Trump is becoming increasingly obsessed and unpredictable, so consumed by personal grievances and narcissistic rants that his own campaign aides are trying to keep him quiet. He still has not explained what he means by fixing American democracy so his supporters won’t ever have to vote again. Quite simply, Trump is a risk to the world, and in particular to the rules-based international order that Greece relies on. His vindictive and unpredictable behavior undermines international institutions like NATO while encouraging autocrats like Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan or Russian President Vladimir Putin.

 

The outcome of this year’s US presidential elections will matter greatly to the world and to Greece. The world needs a competent hand at America’s helm.

 

American citizens abroad can play a decisive role in deciding that future if they exercise their right to vote. We call on them to do so.

 

––Jeff

London Calling

Here’s a bit of a flaneur around London.

The Royal Albert Hall in its original form had a terrible echo. Modern acoustics fixed it in such a way that the cheapest seats in the house get the best auditory experience.

Two ply toilet paper was invented in London.

London is also the smallest city in the world, yes I’m being devious here as the city of London is a distinct within Greater London. It has its own Police Force. This created some problems during the Jack the Ripper case. Famously this fact was used in the book A Certain Justice by PD James where a body is found in chambers and the body straddles the boundary between the jurisdiction of the city of London and the Metropolitan Police. As in horse racing its where the head is that counts. Unlike track running where it’s the chest that counts.

Only 5 people died in the great fire of London although it flattened 80% of the city. However, the great smog of London 1952 killed thousands with 100,000 suffering life changing after effects or sequela. This prompted the worlds very first clean air act.

Black cab drivers do a thing called the knowledge. It’s a brutal exam to pass, memorizing 300 routes and over 20,000 landmarks.

All the venomous animals were euthanised at London zoo during the second world war in case the zoo was bombed and the wee critters escaped. The blitz of 1940 created an inferno over a larger area than the great fire of London could ever have dreamed of.

Jimmy Hendrix lived and died in London. The house he died in was next door to the house that Handel died in.

London is the third most visited in the face of the planet after Bangkok and Paris. I thought New York would have been up there.

As you guys probably know Big Ben is the bell inside the tower. The tower is the Elizabeth tower and its on the north end of the palace of Westminster.

Winne the Poo was a real bear, she lived at London Zoo between 1914 and 1934. A certain author Mr Milne and his son Christopher used to visit.

One third of Londoners today were not born in Great Britain.

London has so many trees its officially a forest.

The London underground covers 270 miles. The iconic map was designed in 1933. He got paid £250 for doing it.

Our intrepid explorer found the tunnel that goes underneath the Thames, it goes back to the 1800s and is 1350 feet in length. It was rumoured to be the first tunnel successfully constructed under a ‘navigable river’.

During the height of Empire London was the capital of a land mass that was 22% of the Earth’s surface.

The prime meridian line, or Greenwich meantime is no longer where it should be, its not zero any more due to the movement of the earths crust it’s a bit to the east and is believed to be marked by a council bin. At least you have some chance of photographing that.

Thank you for our intrepid explorer for the pictures I was failing to meet a deadline.
 

Caro Ramsay

Hurricane At High Altitude

 Wendall-- every other Thursday

I was born in western North Carolina. My parents both went to college there—that’s where they met. 

 

View of North Carolina mountains from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

 

That's mini-me on the far right with my parents and grandparents at a "viewing spot" on the Parkway.

My father’s oldest brother was part of the WPA project that built the Blue Ridge Parkway.

 

 

Construction of the Parkway was part of FDR's New Deal.

When we were kids, half of our vacations away were spent at a series of motels somewhere along that Parkway. We loved Tweetsie Railroad and spent time in Blowing Rock and Cherokee and Asheville. 

 

We took so many rides on this railway attraction.

And watched the faux gunfights in the town.

Then we'd head back to play in the pool in one of the many motels nearby.

My aunt and uncle raised their family in Morganton and many of their children still live there.

 

Downtown Morganton

 

One of my cousins attended Appalachian State University in Boone. Another was a professor there for almost 40 years. 

 

Looking back at Boone, home to Appalachian State University.

 

Another cousin and her family live in Grandfather Mountain. One of the last photos of me and my father was taken on her deck.

 

Me and my Dad at Grandfather Mountain.

 

Currently, my brother and his family, as well as my stepmother, live in southeastern Tennessee, just over the NC border.

 

So my ties to the region are lifelong and strong.

 

Although natural disasters can and do happen anywhere, the shock of a hurricane taking out entire towns and hunks of vital highways at this altitude and so far inland is profound.

 

Asheville, a city of almost 100,000 people, with a vital and thriving arts community, is one of the jewels of the region. Its River Arts District is full of crafts, wineries, and galleries. The area is also home to the Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village, conceived by Frederick Olmstead and completed in 1905. 

 

Part of the River Arts District.

 

The area is full of murals.

Biltmore Village, completed in 1905.

Both of these areas experienced catastrophic flooding over the weekend.

 

River Arts District on September 28.

Biltmore Village on September 28.

 

And so many roads and bridges are closed or gone that as of this weekend, no one could get in or out of Asheville. 

 

 

Every road or highway in and out of Asheville is closed.

Just one of the major highways.

 

Many smaller towns, like Chimney Rock, are just gone.

 

So many people there have lost absolutely everything, so I wanted to post a link to a list on the region’s NPR site to organizations that are sending aid, in case anyone wants to help or donate.

 

https://www.bpr.org/bpr-news/2024-09-28/list-ways-to-donate-and-help-flood-victims-in-western-north-carolina-after-hurricane-helene

 

--Wendall

Ten Steps to Managing Migraines: A Doctor's Journey as Both Patient and Healer

 Wed--Kwei

You’re a pain in the head

As a physician, I've dedicated my career to helping others navigate their health challenges. Yet, since the age of ten, I've been grappling with a relentless foe of my own: chronic migraines. I still vividly remember lying in a dark room as a child, my head throbbing intensely, overhearing my father say, "A 10-year-old has no business with headaches." Little did we know that this was the beginning of a lifelong journey with this complex neurological condition. 

The Different Types of Headaches

Headaches are not all created equal and vary in cause, intensity, and treatment. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Tension Headaches are the most common type and often feel like a tight band around your head. They are usually caused by stress, anxiety, or poor posture. 

Tension HA may envelop the entire head

• Migraine Headaches: Migraines are much more severe and can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. They are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. 

                                                   Migraines are typically one-sided

• Cluster Headaches: Known for their excruciating pain, cluster headaches occur in cyclical patterns or clusters. They usually affect one side of the head and can be accompanied by redness and watering of the eyes.

                                                 Cluster HA can feel like an ice-pick behind one eye

• Mixed Headaches: These are a combination of tension and migraine headaches, making them particularly hard to treat as they exhibit symptoms of both.

 

Migraines: Not Just a Headache

Migraines are more than just severe headaches—they're a multifaceted disorder that can significantly impact daily life. Despite my medical expertise, I haven't gained complete control over my migraines. They continue to affect my productivity as an author and physician, sometimes leading to days when I struggle to accomplish my tasks. However, through years of experience and exploration, I've discovered effective strategies that have helped me manage them better. Here are ten steps that have made a meaningful difference in my ongoing quest to manage migraines.

 

1. Understand Your Migraine Types and Triggers

Migraine management begins with understanding. Migraines manifest differently for everyone. Mine often follow periods of intense stress or sleepless nights, standard during medical training and long hospital shifts. Keeping a detailed headache diary to track frequency, duration, and potential migraine triggers can provide invaluable insights.

2. Seek Specialized Medical Care

Consulting a neurologist or headache specialist can open doors to advanced migraine treatments. My turning point came when I sought help from a neurologist who introduced me to new therapies targeting the root causes of chronic migraines. Professional guidance is essential in developing a personalized migraine treatment plan.

3. Explore Advanced Treatments Like CGRP Inhibitors

Recent advancements have identified the role of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) in migraine headaches. CGRP inhibitors are a new class of medications designed to prevent migraine attacks by blocking this peptide. Starting treatment with CGRP inhibitors has reduced the frequency and intensity of my migraines, though they haven't eliminated them. Discussing CGRP treatments with your doctor may offer new hope in your migraine journey.

4. Incorporate Mindfulness and Meditation

Stress is a significant migraine trigger for many, including myself. Integrating mindfulness and meditation into my daily routine has helped me manage stress levels and provided a sense of control over my migraines. Even a few minutes of focused breathing or guided meditation can make a substantial difference in migraine prevention and overall well-being.

Any sort of meditation or mindfulness is fine

5. Schedule Regular Relaxation Breaks

In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to overlook the importance of rest. Sometimes, simply stepping away from your desk or laptop can alleviate tension. I began setting aside specific times each day to step away from tasks, allowing my mind and body to relax. Whether it's a short walk, stretching, or just closing your eyes, these relaxation techniques can prevent stress from accumulating and triggering migraines.

6. Spend Quality Time with Animals

Interacting with animals can be incredibly therapeutic. Quality time with pets like dogs, cats, or horses has dramatically relieved my tension. The simple act of petting an animal can reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation. If you don't own a pet, consider volunteering at a local animal shelter or spending time with a friend's pet to reap these stress-relieving benefits.

                                                           Brushing off Algot, an equine favorite

7. Practice Self-Compassion

Migraines often disrupt plans and productivity, leading to frustration and self-criticism. As an author, I've had days where migraines significantly impact my ability to write. Learning to forgive myself when I can't accomplish everything I intended has been liberating. Embracing self-compassion reduces stress and makes managing migraines more manageable. Remember, having off days is okay—your health comes first.

8. Utilize Therapeutic Sounds

Listening to music or ambient sounds like green, brown, or blue noise is soothing during migraine episodes. These therapeutic sounds can help distract from pain and promote relaxation, making them valuable tools in migraine management. Incorporating them into your routine may relieve and improve your quality of life.

9. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Regular exercise, adequate hydration, and a balanced diet play significant roles in migraine prevention. While exercising during a migraine isn't feasible—a movement often exacerbates the pain—staying active when symptom-free can reduce the frequency of attacks. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have chronic migraines.

10. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep deprivation is a common migraine trigger. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a restful environment has improved my sleep quality and reduced migraine occurrences. Good sleep hygiene is essential for neurological health and can significantly impact migraine frequency and intensity.

 

Conclusion

Migraines are a significant part of my life, affecting my work and productivity as a writer, and my overall well-being. There are days when the pain leads to loss of productivity, and I must remind myself to be patient and compassionate. However, through a combination of medical intervention and lifestyle changes, I've made meaningful progress in managing them.

If you're struggling with chronic migraines, I encourage you to explore these steps and find what resonates with you. As a doctor and a patient, I understand the hurdles you face. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. While I haven't wholly banished migraines from my life, each step brings me closer to better management and a higher quality of life.

Embrace the journey with hope and determination—the future holds promise for all migraine sufferers. Stay informed about new migraine treatments, be kind, and continue seeking strategies that work for you. Sometimes, stepping away from stress-inducing tasks or spending time with a beloved pet can make a significant difference. Together, we can navigate the challenges of migraines and move toward a brighter, healthier future.