The Sorrows of an American

I just finished read Siri Hudsvedt’s second novel, The Sorrows of an American. A really lovely, melancholy, contemplative novel. It took me almost a week to read this book, because it’s a slow-burn book, the kind that requires one’s full concentration at every moment. The narrator, a psychiatrist, reminds me of Lars Gustafsson’s intellectual, solitary…Continue reading The Sorrows of an American

Golden Gate

National Geographic Traveler magazine recently asked me to name my favorite Golden Gate Park destination. I chose the playground at Koret Children’s Quarter. Pick up the December issue of National Geographic Traveler to see what other Bay Area folks have to say about the park: San Francisco Symphony Orchestra Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, artist Maya…Continue reading Golden Gate

Ooooh, Tannebaum

Well, it’s that time of year. In lieu of writing something new about Christmas (hello, who has time?), I’ll just refer you to this piece I wrote about the Christmas tree boys for Salon a few years ago. It’s December now, and the Christmas tree industry’s booming, and I just can’t get my mind around…Continue reading Ooooh, Tannebaum