Inspiration as Requiem

A quick word about a man I barely know anything about: I didn't grow up with or experience Roger Ebert the way many Americans seem to have done, and for that I have missed out. A quick perusal of my Twitter feed once the news of his passing broke drew my attention to two tweets in tribute to Mr. Ebert:

Can't believe Roger Ebert was writing until the day before he died- a beautiful testimony to doing what you love as long as you can.
— Alisa Harris (@alisaharris) April 4, 2013

Ebert always wrote like an inspired amateur, never a cynical pro.
— pourmecoffee (@pourmecoffee) April 4, 2013

These two remarks so thoroughly encapsulate the ideal of a career that I would love to enjoy. Would that we all can work such that this could be said of us one day. RIP Mr. Ebert.

Helplessness Blues

I don't know how we've managed to go this long without checking out Fleet Foxes, but we have. And I have corrected the problem.

This titular song from their latest album really captures my frame of mind as of late.

I was raised up believing I was somehow unique
Like a snowflake distinct among snowflakes, unique in each way you can see
And now after some thinking, I'd say I'd rather be
A functioning cog in some great machinery serving something beyond me

But I don't, I don't know what that will be
I'll get back to you someday soon you will see

The Future

Block off a good half-hour for yourself (yeah, it's a very long one) and Read. This. Article. I cannot overstate how well James Fallows has encapsulated the state of energy policy, politics, and research and development in the US and, inevitably, in China. It is fascinating, informative reading on ideas and decisions that will significantly impact your future and mine.

Also, after reading through this, it appears I should seriously consider brushing up on my Chinese as a career-building (if not personal, familial responsibility) move.