Opportunities flit by while we sit regretting the chances we have lost, and the happiness that comes to us we heed not, because of the happiness that is gone. Jerome K. Jerome (1859-1927)  

has-been Definition: (noun) Someone who is no longer popular. Synonyms: back-number Usage: There is a fine line between pop star and washed-up has-been, and the poor sales of her newest record seem to indicate that she has crossed it. Discuss. […]

Fulgencio Batista (1901) Batista was a soldier, president, and dictator who twice ruled Cuba. After working his way up through the army, he ruled first through associates before becoming president himself in 1940. In his first term, he achieved gains […]

It is not that the Englishman can’t feel—it is that he is afraid to feel. He has been taught at his public school that feeling is bad form. He must not express great joy or sorrow, or even open his […]

contravene Definition: (verb) To act or be counter to; violate. Synonyms: infringe, run afoul, conflict Usage: This deportation order contravenes basic human rights and must be overturned. Discuss.  

Philip Livingston (1716) Livingston was a successful merchant whobecame an American revolutionary leader inthe protests against the Stamp Act and otherBritish trade restrictions. Although he was notoriginally an advocate of independence,Livingston signed the Declaration ofIndependence and remained an active member of the ContinentalCongress. He was generous with his large fortune and was asupporter of many causes, including the founding of King’sCollege, which later became what university? More…  

It is an unfortunate fact that we can securepeace only by preparing for war. John F. Kennedy (1917-1963)  

tyrannical Definition: (adjective) Marked by unjust severity or arbitrarybehavior. Synonyms: oppressive Usage: He was neither wrathful, cruel, nor tyrannical, but justand gentle as a king could be. Discuss.  

Berthe Morisot (1841) Morisot was a French impressionist painter best known for her loose brushwork and the sensitivity she brought to her female subjects. She studied with many gifted painters, including Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot, and was highly influenced by Édouard […]

There is never jealousy where there is not strong regard. Washington Irving (1783-1859)  

kowtow Definition: (verb) Try to gain favor by cringing or flattering. Synonyms: bootlick, toady, truckle, fawn, suck up Usage: Josh was next in line for a promotion, but he refused to kowtow to his superiors, and they ultimately chose the […]

Parmigianino (1503) Girolamo Francesco Maria Mazzola was an Italian Mannerist painter and etcher commonly known by his nickname Parmigianino, meaning “the little one from Parma.” His works possess remarkable grace and sensuality, and he is regarded as one of the […]