Jobmat

I am reorganizing my files. In my first computer I had a folder called jobmat, i.e. Job Materials, because I was a dissertator on the job market. It was for my vita and all materials for job applications. I had this folder for a long time, but it later morphed into two: one for annual … More Jobmat

Review

In Reeducation it was not right to remain rational or to be peaceful, or to put things in perspective, as this was considered evidence of a “lack of feeling.” At the same time it was not right to ever be stunned or caught off guard. The opposite is true, of course, and I am still … More Review

Formula and plan

Service: no nonsense. Teaching: low expectations. Research situation: vigilance. Recreation and general self-care: a lot. In Reeducation, as we know, I learned that I should not be the center of my own life or take authority in it. I learned to be apologetic about and ashamed of my various achievements and intellectual orientation. I learned … More Formula and plan

Los pasos lejanos

Mi padre duerme. Su semblante augusto figura un apacible corazón; está ahora tan dulce… si hay algo en él de amargo, seré yo. Hay soledad en el hogar; se reza; y no hay noticias de los hijos hoy. Mi padre se despierta, ausculta la huida a Egipto, el restañante adiós. Está ahora tan cerca; si … More Los pasos lejanos

Limbo

One of my friends points out, in a nonacademic context, that life in limbo is a hard thing to manage. This is a good observation and I think living in limbo is one of the main stressors of academia. Of course you can say that uncertainty is everywhere but I am speaking of the constant … More Limbo