Wistful Thinking and Toe-to-Toe Talking  |
| Wiki: exedra Kameiros, Rhodes, Greece |
Ever wonder what a conversation with Aristotle or Socrates might be like? The ancient Greek philosophers pioneered Western philosophy as we know it. Did they develop
their ideas in an …
EXEDRA (ekʹsi drɘ; pl. -draeʹ) n. – in ancient Greece, a room, building,
or outdoor area with seats, where conversations were held. WW #206]
My Greek best friend often laments a lack of
community in the U.S. Not just in neighborhoods, but in attitude. Evening and
weekend strolls with friends and soon-to-be friends often include an exedra,
where thoughts, ideas, and communal conversation flow. She says the art of
camaraderie and outdoor exedrae are alive and well in modern Greece.
 |
| Boardwalk, Pacific Beach CA |
Although seaside towns and cities here, often
include “boardwalks”
or “promenades,” landlocked or interior burgs have rarely duplicated that sense
of community; and parks are rarely conducive
to meeting anyone new or encouraging discussion.
However, an exedra can apply to home
as well as community. In our digital age in which everyone “talks” via
miscellaneous devices, we’re losing touch with the art of personal communication.
If allowed to continue, we humans face a vapid world of screen-only communication. We were given the sense of touch, and
empathy of emotion, for a reason … to interact with each other.
The snow, rain, and cold clouds will soon give
way to Spring’s warm days, perfect for toe-to-toe talking with friends and
acquaintances. Let’s not forget what sets us apart from animals … and robots. Create
an exedra
in your home, yard, office, or community, for stimulating, philosophical
conversation.
Word Challenge: EXEDRA. Yes, free-flowing conversation will
also take a little of your time. Consider how much it might relieve your stress
and stimulate your thoughts, as you fit exedra into your week of conversational
writing.
Learning knows no prejudices or boundaries, and it isn’t fattening!
Expanding your mind is a no-cost, simple joy. Do you feel that way too? What’s
your inspiration? Share your creative genius and Wordplay Wednesday comments below.
Write first for yourself … only then can you write for others. (L.Rochelle)
LinDee Rochelle is a writer and editor by
trade, and an author by way of Rock & Roll. She has published two books (of
three) in her Blast from Your Past series about pioneering R&R Radio DJs. The true behind-the-mic
tales make GREAT Holiday Gifts available on Amazon (eBook and print): Book 1 – Rock & Roll Radio DJs: The First Five Years 1954-1959; and Book
2 – Rock & Roll Radio DJs: The Swinging Sixties. Coming soon … The Psychedelic
Seventies!
E-N-Dzzzzzzzz
