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Banks Western Canyon
Join me on my reading journey through the literary classics of the Western Canon.
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Cracker Barrel Could Have Learned Something About Branding from the Ancient Egyptians
Learn how the ancient Egyptians developed a visual language that was a precursor to modern branding.
Aug 2813 min read


5 Common Misconceptions about the Egyptian Book of the Dead
Explore the fascinating world of the Egyptian Book of the Dead (EBD) and uncover common misconceptions about this ancient text.
Jul 1411 min read


In the End: Final Thoughts About the Epic of Gilgamesh
Foundation figure of King Ur-Namma from the Third Dynasty of Ur (ca. 2112-2004 B.C.). Morgan Library and Museum, New York Book...
May 223 min read


Behind the Red Velvet Curtain: An American BBallerina in Russia
Joy Womack's autobiography, "Behind the Red Velvet Curtain: An American Ballerina in Russia," reveals the harsh realities of classical ballet. Womack's journey from the Kirov Academy in Washington DC to the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow is filled with physical and mental challenges, including self-harm and eating disorders. Her story highlights the toxic culture within ballet and the sacrifices made for the art form. Despite the struggles, Womack's determination and resilience shi
May 197 min read


There Are Rivers in the Sky - Book Review
Elif Shafak's novel, "There Are Rivers in the Sky," is excellent. Shafak skillfully intertwines the stories of Arthur, Narin, and Zaleekah, connecting them to the Epic of Gilgamesh. Her extensive research ties together themes like female representation, cultural appropriation, ecological disaster, and genocide. Despite some forced plot elements, Shafak's characters and themes are fascinating, especially the portrayal of the goddess Nisaba and the character Nen.
May 95 min read


Travelogue: Yale Peabody Museum
Travelogue about a trip to the Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, Connecticut to see the Ancient Egypt & Mesopotamia exhibit.
Apr 173 min read


The Flood: Irony in the Epic of Gilgamesh
How the flood impacted Mesopotamian culture and influenced the Epic of Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh encounters Utnapishtim - the Mesopotamian Noah.
Apr 1111 min read


Enki and the Garden of Jewels
A theory that the jeweled garden in the Epic of Gilgamesh is the Sea House that arises from the Abyss of Enki.
Mar 37 min read


Literary Archaeology
The layered versions of Epic of Gilgamesh, discovered via archaeology, shows the evolution of kingship and humanity's quest for immortality.
Jan 208 min read
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