Monthly Archives: January 2011

Archaic Definition of the Week – Simoleon

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simoleon American slang, since c. 1830 A dollar. [ < British slang (since XVII but obsolete by late XIX) simon, a sixpence. There is no explanation of the British usage. Simon Magus sought to buy sacramental powers for money, and simony, named after him, is the sin of selling the services of the church for money. The money nexus is apparent, but no proper priest will sell out his office for a mere sixpence. Nor is there an explanation of the American variation. What is certain is that British simon passed into American simoleon, the monetary exchange rate shifting from British 6 p. to American $1.]

Dictionary & Native’s Guide to the Unknown American Language by John Ciardi.

Category: ADOTW | Tags: , , ,

The literary-genre debate picks up steam

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The debate continues on whether “literary” fiction is distinct from “genre” fiction. 

Literary versus genre fiction: Meaningful difference or false distinction?” is an upcoming panel discussion on this issue scheduled for 28 January at Watchung Booksellers in Montclair, New Jersey.  The panel will include several authors: Christina Baker Kline, Alice Elliott Dark, Laurie Lico Albanese, Elizabeth Brundage, and Peter Golden.

As I am currently rounding up contributors for a website dedicated to promoting a concept of literary quality that is not spoiled by genre bigotry, this issue is high on my watch list.  If I were in the northern New Jersey, I would definitely stop by; any aspiring writers or interested fans in the area should attend.

For more of my take on this issue: Continue reading

Barnes and Noble and Borders and Bookopoly

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There has been a lot of buzz lately about the implosion of Borders, with two executives recently resigning and banks offering the troubled company lenient terms for repaying its debt.

In response, Barnes & Nobles executives are offering a sadly typical, false free-market argument against the “special terms.” Continue reading