Dear class,
It’s a funny thing, looking at a class roster, and thinking about the potential narrative and arc of a brand new circle of faces. You all looked remarkable and terrific, but who could tell? It’s fun to live in the month of potential, imagining how great and inspiring a new class will be, but I have to say, the reality is even better. Having met you all, I’m simply delighted, and enjoyed, more than I can say, our first week of classes and conferences. I’m thrilled with the personal narrative topics emerging–you all have important, poignant, funny, sincere, and perspective-shifting stories to share. I expect (as always!) to learn as much from you as I will teach. I have endless enthusiasm and energy for our sort of collaborative endeavor, and am looking forward to being well-matched by your energy and effort! Those are the best days, and I’m looking forward to many of them.
I’ve selected some of my favorite of your six-word memoirs, and am posting them below. Nicely done, all!
- yes irish, not an alcoholic #difference
- we are BC, definitely not BU.
- American by Nature, Arab by Nurture.
- “I am bored,” Erase the phrase.
- Pats play this Sunday. Game time!
- Dress well, be polite, stay classy.
- College: Extensive homework; distracted by girls.
- Be Quiet, I’m Trying to Listen.
- My country– is what defines me.
- Interest becomes passion; you made it.
- These words, gone with the wind.
- Brother to four. Friend to many.
- Red Sox fan in enemy territory.
- Can’t stop, won’t stop watching Friends.
- No, I don’t own a horse.
- Memorize material, guarantee grade, insure anhedonia.
- First winner: second to last place.
- First whiner—second to first place.
- My dream seems like a dream.
- Under a microscope and paper thin.
- Couldn’t find the exit. Got scared.
- Cherishing peoples’ presence, they’re all wonderful.
- Love Sinatra…and T-Swift…and Miley.
- Jets, Mets, Knicks: I know sadness.
- Cape Cod: small town, big ideas.
- Just need to cross the bridge.
Cheers,
Professor Barta
postscript: if you, like many, wonder if I suppress my accent (people, as I think I have said, ask) replace every “you all” with “y’all” in this…