For years Russia remained hidden behind the Iron Curtain. Then with the dissolution of the Soviet Union, we saw the extraordinary culture and natural beauty of this vast country for the first time. Yet one gem remains unknown to the West: the artists of the Golden Age – Repin, Kromskoy, […]
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TODAY IN LITERATURE – Dirty Gerty
Bloom on the Beach was its usual enchanting self in Toronto, the customary clear, dry, sunny, breezy day. Falling on a Saturday did not seem be bring out more than the usual 50 or so regulars with several new faces. Perhaps the early start, 8:30am, keeps away some. Others may […]
TRAVEL PURSUITS – What makes our trips different? Key West, January 2012
Travel Pursuits — a glimpse from Key West, January 2012
ON THE ROAD WITH ANN – Memories of Newfoundland, August 2011
Warm thanks to Bill Gentles who sent this labour of love from our trip to St. John’s and to Eastport. It gives a feel not only about this particular trip but what makes a Classical Pursuits trip special. Here is Bill’s Discovering the Newfoundland Soul, August 2011 replete with the […]
TODAY IN LITERATURE Why Great Books? Why Shared Inquiry?
First, Why Great Books? Many have written on this subject, but I think Nigel Beale, Ottawa-based writer, broadcaster, bibliophile, is particularly articulate. This is an abbreviated version of his essay, “Why Read Great Literature: the guide to a good life,” included here with his permission. Most of us, through a combination of personal […]
VIDEO – A Perfect Wave is Reported in Charlottesville
In the afternoons, we embarked on private tours of historic Charlottesville; Monticello, the magnificent home on a hill he designed; the University of Virginia, founded and designed by Jefferson; Montpelier, the home of James Madison, author of the US Constitution, 4th President of the US, and friend and confidant of Jefferson. We also had a […]
VIDEO – First foray from a somewhat nervous Andrew Smith
Andrew Smith is retired from a career in financial services. He had never studied literature or been in a book club when he first showed up at Toronto Pursuits in July 2007. He has become a regular. From his home in Toronto, Andrew reflects on why he decided to give it a […]
VIDEO – What keeps Gary Schoepfel, veteran discussion leader, coming back for more?
Gary has led discussions at Toronto Pursuits almost from its inception and has been on the road to Italy (twice), Paris, Cornwall (twice), Greece, Santa Fe, and Quebec City (3 times). He is on deck for Vietnam and Cambodia in 2012. Why does he do it?
VIDEO – Classical Pursuits and the Pleasure Principle
Lynda Clark is a native Torontonian, a retired arts administrator, serious chorister, even more serious gardener, and curious about most things. Listen to why she has become a “repeat Classical Pursuits offender.” CLASSICAL PURSUITS – the pleasure principle