The Da Vinci Code

Just finished reading The Da Vinci Code. It's a fun little ride, sort of like Diet Umberto Eco. But in the end, it's disappointing. The puzzles are sophomoric, and the supposed expert symbologists struggle with things that should be obvious. The author also uses a very annoying literary device - the "every chapter must end with a cliffhanger" device. See the Dave Barry article at the link - Dave provides a perfect spoof of the book.

Aside from the puzzles, the core theme of the book is the notion that the catholic church, early on in the history of christianity, successfully tried to expunge the feminine side of God. This is hardly new news, nor is it all that explosive, nor is it limited to christianity. This appears to have happened in all monotheistic religions. For a more useful discussion of this idea, don't waste time with the Da Vinci Code, and instead read The Goddess and The Alphabet.

All told, it's not a bad summer book, to be read with a nice glass of wine, but don't expect anything amazing. The book is getting far more press than it deserves.

Fun with iTunes

I recently bought Rush's new album - a bunch of covers of songs from the 60's. I like the album, but I think the originals are better. If you agree, please rate my iTunes playlist!

http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPublishedPlaylist?id=79319

Baby pix

Molly had an ultrasound today. We got color 3D pictures rather than the grainy black-and-whites that we normally get.

Here's junior - click for a larger version of the image

Steal this movie!

Wow. Michael Moore said, in regards to digital piracy of Fahrenheit 9/11:

I don't agree with the copyright laws and I don't have a problem with people downloading the movie and sharing it with people as long as they're not trying to make a profit off my labour. I would oppose that. I do well enough already and I made this film because I want the world, to change. The more people who see it the better, so I'm happy this is happening.

Go Michael!