Why is Rutgers University nicknamed “Slutgers”? [3578A]
(A) Is it? I thought they were the Scarlet Knights.
(B) Play nice.
How big is the average nose?
How big is the average nose? Please address each dimension. [3570B]
Da Vinci believed that the nose from bridge to tip is the length of the index finger from the knuckle to the tip; the width of the base of the nose is equal to the width of the eye. While people are generally getting larger, Da Vinci was all about proportion, so his calculations should remain accurate. Furthermore, he was known to take meticulous measurements and is believed to have been especially determined to get the crotch to mid-thigh measurement correct.
Not cool at all
How come popular culture (especially, but not only “political”) stuff gives this sense that any minute now, the world will be either fixed or destroyed? Elect whoever and the world will end – or be saved. Watch the liberal or conservative “show” and contribute to the imminent…what? All these things make you think the world is JUST on the edge of some kind of climax, but then they just go on and on making money! Is this really cool?
Eliminate your exposure to the news (Internet, newspapers, but especially television) for one month and let me know if you feel the same way. I’m guessing you’ll realize it’s all only aggressive and self-serving foreplay, which is not cool at all!
Equipped for the long journey
Dear Answer Person,
Some of my classes at Duke were bad, and some were good. Some were good, but I wasn’t in any condition to appreciate them or learn from them. I assume that many people could say this about their college experience.
My question is: why does it seem now like a few key things I’ve read since then would have been a perfect foundation to have to be more equipped to deal with those good classes I wasn’t ready for?
Good question. I too remember not being ready for a lot of things I read as an undergraduate (Robbe-Grillet, Calvino, Garcia Marquez), and only really “getting it” after more experience (both in life and in the classroom). I’m going to guess that the answer has something to do with faculty forgetting where they were – intellectually and emotionally – at that age to construct an appropriate syllabus.
Magic carpet rides in Perkins Library
Why is the elevator for the Polisci department so sketchy? [3589B]
[written in other hand: It’s actually a TARDIS.]
Sometimes it feels like a TARDIS (Doctor Who’s Time Machine, for all you non-nerds), Secret Scribbler. It’s taken me on all sorts of crazy rides when I’ve only pushed 2. Fortunately, when the original portion of Perkins Library is renovated, old Otis (which has been in operation since 1949), will be mercifully put down.
Comfortable chairs
Why must the comfy chairs all be taken? [3588C]
[written in answer space: Because you need to get a job.]
Real original non sequitur, Secret Scribbler.
The comfy chairs aren’t all taken now. In fact, there a lots of them available. But I guess it’s winter break.
Will you go to semi with me?
Who are you? Will you go to semi with me? [drawings of hearts] — The Question Person [3587B]
I’m a balloon filled with nitrous oxide and am flattered by your invitation. I’m afraid, though, that my significant other wouldn’t understand your platonic intentions.
Why don't people hold doors?
Why don’t people hold doors? [3569B]
[written in answer space: I do]
I do, too, Secret Scribbler. But I’m afraid we’re the only two who do. The short answer is self-absorption.
Why is there bacon in the soap?
Why is there bacon in the soap? [3591A]
I don’t know. Ask Zimbody else.
The keyword is private
Who lives in the “private house” by the Nasher? [3589A]
[written in answer space: The Hitcher (see “Mighty Boosh”)]
Not even close, Secret Scribbler. I realize we live in a society where nearly everyone wants to know everything about everyone else (for instance, Tiger and the Transgressionettes), but I’m not one of those people. I think people are entitled to some privacy; therefore, I won’t reveal the identity of the person who lives in the “private house” by the Nasher. The keyword to your question is “private.”