Whimsy: May 2021 Archives

Philosophia Christi: Whether Augustine's Name Should Be Pronounced AW-gus-teen or aw-GUS-tin?

Biola philosophy Prof. David Horner: "Now, it should be remembered that the issue here is one of grammar, and not one of eternal happiness. It is possible for one to be mistaken in this matter and still to lead a flourishing, albeit less perfectly flourishing, life. Unfortunately some demand slavish conformity to AW-gus-teen as if it were obligatory, and thus "tie up heavy loads and put them upon men's shoulders" (Matt. 23:4). By contrast, we who seek "the more excellent way" (1 Cor. 12:31) of pronunciation are yet able to welcome into our midst those who choose the other path, while, of course, not affirming their choice as equally appropriate. Indeed, some of those who persist in and even insist upon pronouncing Augustine's name as AW-gus-teen are our friends.... In sum, as it has been wisely said: in Florida it's AW-gus-teen, but in heaven it's aw-GUS-tin. And we should certainly not confuse the two places."

Why Bob Newhart Is Staying In Show Business At 91

Newhart on Rickles, Carson, Pryor, and returning to standup at the age of 91. "'It's the assumption of risk, if you walk in to see Don Rickles, it's the assumption of risk,' Bob explained. 'It's like going to a baseball game and getting hit by a ball. Yeah, of course you're going to get hit by a ball and of course you're going to be insulted if you come to see the King of Insults.'" Or as Rickles might say at a Black Hawks game, "Please keep your eye on the puck, you hockey puck."