Emptying the Garbage.
I often spend the previous week thinking about what I will write for this Monday blog. I take a few notes, look up a couple of sources and let things marinate. By Saturday I have a pretty clear idea of what I will write. On Sunday I write the beginning, the end and reshape the middle. It’s kind of fun. However, during these pandemic months I am having trouble focusing. Random thoughts appear, then are carried away, only to show up in an altered state. I’m sure this situation will correct itself after I empty the garbage, so come along with me as I sort through the bins.
Clickbait
I am a sucker for Clickbait despite whatever awful things might happen to my computer as a result. A slide show of Twenty Celebrities Who Have Aged Horribly? I’m on it! Ten Flattering Hairstyles for Older Women? Sign me up! This morning I clicked through a slide show about an octopus a family rescued who returned to the beach the next day “to thank his rescuers.” I would like to see a citation (ala Adam Ruins Everything) that an “octopus thank you” is possible.
Who can resist cat videos? My favorites this week are a cat trying to pet a bird and Ricky Gervais playing with his foster cat. Dogs make good subjects, too–especially the “guilty dog” videos.
Words and Phrases I Would Like to Eliminate From TV News
“Let’s unpack this argument.”
“That’s a good question.”
And by the way…..
“Less” does not mean “Fewer.”
“Literally” is seldom used correctly.
Television Advertisements I Can Do Without
Any ad for prescription medication (without the dire warnings, there would be no narrative at all).
Television Advertisements I Love
The Progressive Insurance ads about teaching homeowners not to act like their parents. My favorites: teaching men not to groan when they sit down; asking homeowners if it’s really necessary to hang a cute sign on the wall that says: “Live, Laugh, Love.” And finally: “You woke up early? Nobody cares.”
Have a good week and don’t forget to empty the garbage!
