OBJECTS TO THINK WITH is an ode to computer time. It is the manifest desire to win all pub quizzes. Or, to impress a girl. It is mainly a column, a deep-dive into different objects of our shared Cultural Heritage.
The word ‘object’ is used broadly. In the same way you might call a song or a movie a ‘text’ (to be read, to be understood), all subjects discussed in this column are ‘objects’ (to be looked at, to be held).
While an imperfect methodology, it is a convenient way of framing abstract-seeming concepts such as Intangible Cultural Heritage, not with the purpose of objectifying these concepts (by accessioning them into a glass vitrine for all time), but rather, to encourage you to imagine holding them in your hands.
Touch is vital in this relationship. This is so you may feel an object’s many contours, made by generations of heads, hearts and hands. You may be asked to ‘touch’ a folk song, or ‘peer at’ an idea as if it were in front of you.
OTTW will be a short column. Sources will be included. Corrections are always welcome. Mirth not guaranteed.