As a sentimental senior preparing to graduate within the month, I have been trying to spend as much time as possible in my favorite places around campus. I have many, but an especially beloved spot is on the hill overlooking Sunset Lake, right near the broken bench. I go here to read. I sit on the grass (which is currently long and sprinkled with dandelions and forget-me-nots) because the bench is missing several bars on its seat—sitting on it requires…
As preregistration descends upon us, wreaking panic and excitement in equal measures, students across Vassar interrogate friends and pore over catalogues to get a good idea of what classes might be like. Another good way to get a sense for classes, especially intro classes in a field that’s new to you, is to peruse their required reading. “But Elizabeth,” you say, “professors won’t send out reading lists until like August!” Fear not, friends, because I have taken a number of…
In this post, I had intended to write my reflections on Nabokov’s “Transparent Things,” which I started reading over fall break. However, I found myself first analyzing the structure, wordplay, and characters without giving myself time to simply enjoy the novel. And, I want to enjoy the novel—like most of Nabokov’s work, it is witty and bizarre, and provides a truly fun reading experience. Furthermore, as a writer, I consider Nabokov one of my creative muses, but I always prefer…