Things That Matter To People Who Matter

Spike Lee | Pigeons | Lately | Table Tennis

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Published: May 2, 2007

Spike Lee

The last six months, I haven't been able to put down Spike Lee: That's My Story and I'm Sticking to It, as Told to Kaleem Aftab. The book shows that, for a young artist, passion and perseverance will always succeed. It's fascinating to learn how Spike was making mistakes on his first films � and is still making mistakes on his current films. But they always turn into happy accidents, and the finished product always stands on its own. A must-read for anyone who wants to turn art into life.

Pigeons

When I was a child, I raised a type of pigeon called a Birmingham roller, which performs aerial stunts. By pinioning their wings against air currents, these pigeons are able to do backflips in the air, tumbling down in a display that is equally graceful and awkward. I also spent time with several varieties of fancy pigeons in my youth. As such, I enjoy observing the feral pigeons of our city. I think they are an overlooked source of wonder and beauty for many people. I find that if we pay close attention to something (such as a pigeon), and approach it without cynicism, it can yield insight and knowledge, no matter how trivial it may seem to the passer-by.

Lately

I am crazy about Sara Pritchard's new book of short stories, Lately. I became a huge fan of Pritchard after hearing her read from her powerful novel Crackpots at the 2002 Bread Loaf Writers' Conference, where she was awarded the Bakeless Prize for Fiction. She's the most original, hilarious, underappreciated writer in the country. The stories in Lately are wildly diverse and absolutely unforgettable, and her gorgeous writing is full of surprises and treats for readers. It's the kind of book you walk around with and rave about to everyone you run into, but won't let anyone borrow because you need it nearby.

Table Tennis

About a year ago, I got coaxed by some friends while out at a local social club to try out this admittedly fringe bar sport. I picked up a racket and became infatuated. Improving my gameplay has since become a weekly labor of love. Learning the art of serving and spins has evolved into an addictive assignment. Playing has improved my wrist speed and my drumming ability. The tiny community of players with whom I've made friends are, surprisingly, as wide-eyed about the pastime as I've become. Everyone's new at it, and everyone likes it. I think it's a woefully underrated little game. It's just terrific. By the way, it's table tennis � not ping-pong.

 

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