Variations on Greasy Lake: Music and Image

"It's about a mile down on the darkside of route 88..."


In the notes for T. Correghessan Boyle's short story, "Greasy Lake," he references the allusion of his title to the Bruce Springsteen song "Spirit in the Night."

Click on the song and read the lyrics. Then, answer the the questions below in your comment. Also, listen to the song.

• How does Springsteen create the setting of "Greasy Lake"? What mood does his depiction of the setting create? Consider the imagery, diction and figurative language of the lyrics and the music itself.



• Is Springsteen's version of Greasy Lake different or similar? Why?
  

Also: Check out the video clip of the movie "Greasy Lake" on youtube (with James Spader).

• How does the movie depict the setting? Is it true to the story? To the song? How is it similar or different?
  
  

Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Think Different.


Steve Jobs, the brilliant mind behind Apple, the personal computer, the ipod, ipad, iphone and Pixar died earlier this week. I thought it fitting, as you write your college essays and consider the beginning of your own professional and personal journey, to stop for a minute and reflect upon Jobs and his message for college graduates.


Read this obituary from CBS News about Steve Jobs.

Read this speech Steve Jobs gave the graduating students at Standford University. Watch the video too.


Please respond to his life and his speech. What aspects of his advice or message will you take with you? How will you "think different" as you begin your adult life?