Cecil Vortex

In brief: Far from the simple shepherd I’ve always pictured, So-called Abram turns out to be complex — a wealthy man, a traveller, a warrior, a slaveowner. Also Lots’ uncle. And a bit quick to say his wife is his sister. Moses gets foreshadowed. Hagar gets set up, but then she and Ishmael and their … Read more

This week it seemed like history and fiction were spinning faster and faster together in a tight grip, all I’m sure leading to a dizzying conclusion. We also got another quick recap of much of what’s happened before, another mad dose of the rhythm Rushdie has been laying down throughout. Back and forth, back and … Read more

Another wonderful section this week. A few thoughts: Much like Seth, the Raven could use more/better PR. On the other hand, the animals that creep are getting tons of screen time. Holding the child responsible for the sins of the parents. A simple idea with a sad legacy. The Flood may have been 40 days … Read more

Oh my goodness we are close to the finish line! Meanwhile, I’ve been busy writing my thesis on pickles and Midnight’s Children, aptly titled, Midnight’s Pickles. Pickle-shaped noses aside, this section was a particularly rich source of literary dill. Twenty-six pickle-jars stand gravely on a shelf; twenty-six special blends, each with its identifying label, neatly … Read more

In the Jewish tradition, there’s this idea of Torah portions — parashot plural and parashah singular — that you read each week for about a year. And it starts this week. This very one! Right now! With a couple other family members, I’m embarking on this wee adventure, to get from front cover to back, … Read more

Well, I cheated. Held off posting for an extra day to buy myself more time. But I finally caught up with you mighty Meanderers! And props to folks who are still reading and just a little bit behind. I am not in a judging mood, my friends. None of us perfectly pure. Faulty towels one … Read more

Friends, I have no one to blame but myself! I set us an ambitious goal and like a few fellow Meanderers, this is the week that tripped me up. Perhaps both the book and real life had just a little more plot than my brain was ready to handle. 🙂 With your indulgence, I’ll go … Read more

Past the midpoint are we — midpoint’s children mayhaps? More than that — we’re the ones headed for the finish line! Like the excellent folks in the comments I’m find it tricky going here and there, but worth the effort. A few highlights as I dash to make the Sunday night deadline: “When you have … Read more

Another great section, and the book is officially exactly nothing like I was expecting when we started. And that’s a joyous distraction, this week of all weeks. I’m going to keep the post a little short, but I did want to share a quote that’s been buzzing around my head while I’ve read the last … Read more