Notes from the 'Nog

    Thank you to The Japan Times for publishing my latest piece, on a rather timely subject. The print version is expected to appear on ...

  " In America, the individual is nothing. He is made into an abstract object of worship; by persuading him of his individual value. O...

  "The consequent invasion has taken its toll and, sadly but incontrovertibly, many of our most cherished heritages have suffered the ...

  "Human beings participate in history both as actors and narrators"  On the turntable: Santana, "Santana III"

    After 10 years away, I'm quite pleased to have an article in The Japan Times again. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/2024/07/06/tra...

  "Life has improved immeasurably since I have been forced to stop taking it seriously."  On the turntable: The Smashing Pumpkins,...

  "Our country does not provide the education and upbringing that allow its citizens an interior life."     On the turntable: Snoo...

  ...we meander Thessaloniki, past ruins lying in open lots between the streets, in search of Byzantine churches, in search of lunch, in se...

...Octavian found victory at Actium more easily than we found the old battlefield itself.  The handful of homes scattered along the marshy s...

  ...That 2018 cruise around the Greek isles instilled in me a love for the country.  From ancient ruins to the animated kindness of most of...

    Thank you to Perceptive Travel Magazine for publishing the third article in my recent "Kochi trilogy." https://www.perceptivet...

    "In a new article, free on KJ’s website (link in bio), Edward J. Taylor follows the historical figure Sakamoto Ryoma through the ...

    "Writers in Kyoto member Edward J. Taylor is well-known for documenting his explorations on foot. Now up on the website is a rece...

    Japan's relationship to its natural environment is a complicated one.  Its literature and culture exude about a close affinity for n...

    The island of Shikoku's principle attraction is of course its pilgrimage.  While the 88 temples that serve as waypoints are of varyi...

   “Science is a match that man has just got alight.” On the turntable: Sneaker Pimps, "Uncover the Fans Project"

    Nothing reminds you that you're in Shikoku like seeing an ubiquitous figure in white.  I see my first pilgrim within seconds of st...