…or Chasing Pavements.
Archive for the ‘Entertainment’ Category
When the 100 day long writers’ strike ended in February, we breathed sighs of relief. Now comes word that an actors’ strike is possible. Ugh. You know what such a strike would mean: even more reality tv and reruns.
Reality tv. Reruns. How about a rerun of our idea for a new show inspired by “American Idol?” Producers, networks, give us a call.
Mr. and Mrs Ampolo have been teaching a writing workshop at a public library. Our mantra is simple: “Write every day!”
At our workshops, we give participants writing exercises. Today’s exercise went over very well. If you’re an aspiring writer, you might want to try it.
1. Take a few minutes and write down ten objects that are important/meaningful to you. (Objects, not people or ideas.)
2. Cross out five.
3. Cross out two more.
4. Select one of the three remaining objects and for the next 15 minutes write about it (or be inspired by it to write about something).
Among the objects that our participants wrote about: purse, coffee pot, tree, nylon bag, crossword puzzle, mother’s ring, Scrabble tiles, Mayan ruins, and son’s bicycle.
Share with us the object you select and, if you wish, the story behind it.
Jun-23-2008
Three Words You Should Never Say in the Newspaper
Posted by steve under Entertainment, News
“Words are all we have really.”
George Carlin, 1937-2008
We note with sorrow the passing of the gifted comedian George Carlin. Carlin was a superb wordsmith who often noted the absurdity of our use of language. His “Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television” routine remains a classic. The New York Times offered a fine obituary by critic/author Mel Watkins today and a nice appreciation by editor Charles McGrath. Because, however, Carlin paid such attention to the written and spoken word, I’m going to quibble with one portion of the obit. It reads:
“Despite the longevity of his career and his problematic personal life, Mr. Carlin remained one of the most original and productive comedians in show business. ‘It’s his lifelong affection for language and passion for truth that continue to fuel his performances,’ a critic observed of the comedian when he was in his mid-60s. (italics mine)
Mr. Ampolo becomes Mr. Purist here. Why isn’t the critic who offered the observation identified? This isn’t Robert Novak protecting Richard Armitage after the latter spilled the beans. (Of course, Plame is the real one whose identity should have been protected.) My only guess is that Mr. Watkins might be quoting himself. I’m not sure that’s kosher.
Maybe I have too much time on my hands today. I went so far as to email the Times’ public editor and ask him what’s up and what the paper’s policy is with respect to such quotations. If you’ve read this far, stay tuned!
