Philosophy Department Party 2009

The party is winding down.

Previous parties: 2008, 2007.

The Glory of Manly Sports

Mural glorifying Physical Education and "The Glory of Manly Sports" in what was once Bartlett Gymnasium, and is now Bartlett Commons at the University of Chicago.

Thorstein Veblen

Thorstein Veblen was our tour guide to the early history of the University of Chicago last weekend.

Jay didn't work up the nerve to ask him about the arguments in "A Plea for Cannibals" or "Apology for a Toper".

Blue Bike, Mk I

First test set-up on my bike from Tati.

This is the speedy configuration. Possible modifications: paint front rack same color as frame, match the color of the seat and the cork handles, replace black parts with silver ones, replace white chain with silver chain.

End of Summer

Hammock time at the Breathe Inn in the Catskills.

It's windy and chilly today, and tomorrow is the first day of school. Summer is over.

Glass House vs. Farnsworth House

The Farnsworth house is more beautiful, but the Glass House's central fireplace/bathroom cylinder is a more inspired solution to the plumbing problem. And the kitchen area in the Glass House doesn't block the view through the house, which is a major advantage.

Glass House, Part II

Sculpture gallery.

"Kunst Bunker" exterior.

"Kunst Bunker" interior, with revolving displays.


Donald Judd sculpture.

The Glass House, Part I

New Canaan, Connecticut.

Dinner in Buenos Aires

A Penguino wine decanter.

Liz cuts into a plate of beef.

Not pictured: blood sausage and regular sausage.

Dinnertime is around midnight.

It's a Big Blue Watery Road

We assembled the crew for night sailing and fireworks viewing on Lake Michigan for Jay's 30th. Our captain said that Captain Ron was the most accurate representation of nautical life.

Batavus Old Dutch

Tati Cycles loaned me this bike while mine is being built. I'm really enjoying cruising around HP on this thing, and after only two outings I have received three positive, spontaneous remarks from passersby about the bike. But the Batavus Old Dutch weighs about 45 pounds, which is far too much to comfortably carry up three flights of stairs.