The Muses Companion – April 18, 2024

Good day, readers. Today is April 18th, the 108th day of the year 2024, with 258 days remaining.

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

Stephen King

Today in Literary History:

On this day in 1930, the BBC famously announced, “There is no news,” in their evening radio report and instead played piano music. This unique occurrence highlights the unpredictability of news cycles and has since been referenced in various discussions and writings on media and communication.

Notable Birthdays:

• Clarence Darrow (April 18, 1857-March 13, 1938), an American lawyer and leading member of the American Civil Liberties Union, was born on this day. Best known for defending John T. Scopes in the Scopes “Monkey” Trial, Darrow’s eloquent speeches and writings on civil liberties continue to influence legal thought and are studied for their literary quality as well.

Today’s Readings:

From Clarence Darrow’s address to the court in the Scopes Trial: “I do not believe in God because I do not believe in Mother Goose.”

Literary Fact of the Day:

On April 18, 1924, Simon & Schuster published its first book, The Cross Word Puzzle Book. It was not only the company’s first publication but also the first book of its kind, which helped popularize crosswords in the United States, igniting a national craze.

Reflection:

Today, let us reflect on the importance of advocacy and the power of words in shaping public opinion and law. Clarence Darrow used his articulate and forceful arguments to challenge societal norms and advocate for academic freedom and scientific understanding.

Poem of the Day:

“Always Marry an April Girl” by Ogden Nash:

Praise the spells and bless the charms,
I found April in my arms.
April golden, April cloudy,
Gracious, cruel, tender, rowdy;
April soft in flowered languor,
April cold with sudden anger,
Ever changing, ever true —
I love April, I love you.

Advice for Writers:

Drawing inspiration from Clarence Darrow, consider how your writing can address and advocate for issues you are passionate about. Use your platform to discuss, inform, and persuade, just as Darrow did through his eloquent orations and writings.

Have a thoughtful and impactful day, dear readers. Until tomorrow, may you find power in the words you read and write, influencing the world one sentence at a time.