The English Major Bookstore

'Tis over.

2011-03-15T11:32:00.003-05:00

My store
ain't no more.

Moving Day

2011-03-01T12:33:00.001-06:00

Good God, ya'll!

Free Books- So Many Free Books!!!!!

2011-02-24T09:32:00.001-06:00

Well, I'll tell you what- anyone reading this blog is welcome to come to the store today, before 3, and pick up as many free books as you can carry out. Salvation Army doesn't come till Monday, so it's all yours for the taking. I'll be up there in about an hour- you can call me at (901) 833-3099

Any Thoughts?

2011-02-20T13:14:00.001-06:00

It is my own fault, but no one seems to be reading this blog and as much as I enjoy writing it, I'm unsure of it's future as it feels to weird to be writing for people when there are no people.
Any thoughts?

D.H. Lawrence

2011-01-30T15:59:00.002-06:00

I felt the need to mark this occasion with a post at my newly-resurected-though-likely-not-widely-read-at-this-point-blog. I stopped by the bookstore today and picked up a few books I thought looked interesting. Wanna know what they were (though this activity is not the reason for this blog, just part of the story)?
1. American Literature to 1900 ( an anthology)
2.Herman Melville- Selected Tales and Poems
3.Twentieth Century English Literature
4. Moby Dick
5. This is the one I'm excited about- Lady Chatterley's Lover by D.H. Lawrence.

Women in Love by D.H. Lawrence remains one of my favorite books. A lot of people I have talked to about this book have referenced it as a book they read and were excited about when they were, say, 16 or 17. This knowledge did nothing to diminish my love of this book. Katrina ate up most of my belongings in 2005 and I think that is where my copy of this book landed, at the bottom of The Gulf of Mexico. The experience of reading that book was so moving to me because I still, to this day, enjoy owning a book I have no intention of relinquishing and which I deface by underlining the passage that speak to me. My copy of Women in Love was thoroughly defaced- I love the way D.H. wrote. So, a copy of Lady Chatterley's Lover is sitting on the shelf at the store and I figured, why not? Maybe it's as good as the other one I read. Lo and behold, when I got this book home, someone had underlined all their meaningful passages but the interesting part is that they underlined throughout the whole book! In the whole time I owned the bookstore, I never found a copy of any book that was underlined all the way through. It seems that most other defacers just peter out before the book is over- I look at defaced books specifically to see if they are thoroughly underlined or just a partial job, as is usually the case. Therefore , to have learned that someone out there has enjoyed D.H Lawrence, not just as much as I, but in the same way I did is wild! Maybe only another book nut would 'get' this, but it meant a lot to me, enough to share with the world via the World Wide Web. Hope it didn't drag on too much and turn you off to the whole English Major Blog! :)
Have a great day!

TheEnglishMajor's Booth at Bonanza.com :)

2011-01-27T15:50:00.003-06:00

Well, the threat of Winter weather seems to be behind us and we have a beautiful weekend in front of us. As carriage drivers in the middle of Winter, both Chris and I are extremely happy for the break from the cold. It's almost like a Winter vacation came to us so we didn't have to go to it. Almost.
Went and saw my friend Sally's 3-week-old BEAUTIFUL baby girl, Amelia up at Westy's. I love babies!! So much fun- a couple of my friends are pregnant and I am sure they are all going to need a break at some point from their new bundles of joy, which is where I come in! I love babysitting and am looking forward to helping out where I can. I would open a day care if I could, that would be like a dream job to me. Who knows, perhaps some day!
Just saw where Alexa, from Jerseylicious, (which my husband cannot believe I watch) got her own show called 'The Glam Fairy'. I think that is too funny- all the drama on that show and Alexa always acts like she oozes success in everything she does- then Bravo gives her her own reality show, centered around her! Go Alexa!
On that note, farewell for the day. Hope everyone is having a great day- by the way, I got more books put up on my new website where I am selling books online, at Bonanza.com at TheEnglishMajor's booth (http://www.bonanza.com/booths/TheEnglishMajor). There are about 10 books up thus far- why not swing by and see if anything speaks to you? Local pickup available, btw :)

My Online Book Sales: Bonanza.com!!!

2011-01-26T17:21:00.003-06:00

Hello, again! Like I said in my last post ( although I lamented this when the bookstore was open), I am sceptical that anyone is reading this blog, especially when I haven't posted in about 6 months! But I am going to act like someone is reading this, even if it only me.

So, Chris and I survived the light dusting of snow we got yesterday. The grass in the front yard was barely covered with the white stuff and it was gone by the next day, but we pulled through!! We acted like a team and did what we had to do and survived. Okay, enough poking fun typically-snow-deprived-areas. The real point of this post is to announce that although I only have one book for sale on it, I am the proud user of a website called Bonanza.com (previously Bonanzle.com) and I will be moving my books from Amazon.com to my Bonanza booth ASAP. My booth is called, oddly enough, TheEnglishMajor and can be found at the following link:

http://www.bonanza.com/booths/TheEnglishMajor

Definitely check back, unless you are interested in the one book I have on there and you've been looking for it for forever (A Definitive History of the American Prisoner-of-War by John G. Hubbell, $100) but if it's not, I have a lot of books destined for Bonanza Land. Take care, all, and hope you have a great night.

The English Major Shares

2011-01-25T10:13:00.003-06:00

Strange as it may sound, it has taken until now for me to contemplate the idea that just because I don't have the bookstore anymore doesn't mean I can't continue my blog! When my husband was my boyfriend, he used to jokingly refer to me as 'The Major' (sometimes 'The Private', depending on the circumstances we found ourselves in.) So, I figure, this was a blog for The English Major Bookstore so me without the bookstore leaves just 'The English Major'. And English Majors tend to like to write and blogs are good outlets for that :)
Chris and I are a few days shy of our six-month wedding annviversary! We feel like experts on the whole being married thing- not! We have had our ups and downs, but it has been wonderful. Some blog, I'll tell you about the course of our relationship- this wedding was a long time coming and I'm very happy we had it! (So is Chris, by the way:)
It is, of course, Winter here in Memphis, which for us fulltime carriage drivers, it's just such a great time of year, with it's lack of rides and cold weather. Chris and I feel like we can see a light at the end of the tunnel as there are a lot of activities in February. Of anyone is reading this, remember, it is never too early to book you Valentine's Carriage Ride with me or my husband. You can go to Carriage Tours of Memphis for me, The Carriage Company for him. I'm prettier, just for the record. Speaking of coomedy, Mike McDonald was on Showtime this morning- he's the guy that played Stuart on Mad TV- and he was doing a stand-up comedy routine and it was hysterical!! Laughed my tush off! This has definitely been the easiest winter of my life as a carriage driver ( and the most special, too.)
Well, it's Tuesday, it's supposed to snow in a few hours, 1-3 inches, so in other words, we are snowed in, there is no escape and no way out. We've stocked up on the basic supplies and both my husband and I believe we are going to make it through this storm unscathed. We will pull through it and persevere, likely stronger people for having survived it. Good Luck, Memphis, we'll see you on the other side of this storm. God speed, everyone!

The English Major Lives!!

2010-10-25T17:37:00.005-05:00

Does anyone ever even read this blog anymore? I have started other entries, but they all seemed kind of lame. It has been an extremely lazy day for me, although I did just put two books online for sale and then I did the craziest thing. I opened a booth at Bonanza.com and I did it in about ten minutes. I never get things done on the computer in ten minutes. So, my new career as an online bookseller has been relatively painless, also not something I associate with using a computer. Anyway, married life is very good, lots of little adjustments to get used to. However, the store not being open has been a huge one to get used to. I will be at the store the month of November on Tues- Thurs, from 1-5 and if you have a dollar, I'll bet you I can find you a book!

More Wedding Pics :)

2010-08-05T16:18:00.006-05:00

Well, here's some more wedding pics. But, low-tech girl that I am, I have them all set up in mostly chronological order, only backwards. So, for best results, page pown and start form the last one up! Enjoy! Also, no offense to my friends, but these are some of their pictures. My photographers pics are coming soon, so, yay, you get to see even more! :)

Our Wedding

2010-08-02T22:22:00.003-05:00

Some pictures from our wedding. I've officially been married for over 24 hours, so things must be going okay!

Will post more pics when I get them! Oh, and I have some potential buyers for the store!! Yay!

My Wedding, This Sunday at 8 p.m.

2010-07-30T16:11:00.001-05:00

So, I am not sure how many people actually read this blog anymore, but for you lucky few who do, you are invited to my wedding this Sunday at 8 p.m. at Vance Park downtown. There will be food and refreshments afterward and I'd love to see English Major Patrons there!!

Feeling Lucky!!!

2010-06-21T17:33:00.002-05:00

Hot, hot, hot. I have the day off and it is hotter than Hades outside. Kinda chilly inside, really. Been thinking about how lucky every second I spend in air conditioning is a very lucky second. Of all the times on the planet to be alive and to live in a part of the world where air conditioning is the norm is just plain lucky! And hopefully, next time you come into the bookstore looking for inspiration, validation or motivation, you will find that one certain book that will make you feel just plain lucky!

What if I told you...

2010-06-16T16:03:00.000-05:00

What if I told you the store was for sale?

Everything is A-OK

2010-06-10T16:55:00.002-05:00

Just when I think it can't get any hotter... I turn the air on and everything is a-ok. Everything actually is a-ok at the bookstore- lots of new books up on the shelves and not just books, but hand-picked, lovingly-chosen books which I think you will really like. Come and check them out and prove me right!
Take care and have a good night!

Craving some Bubbles and Squeak??

2010-05-28T15:52:00.002-05:00

Mary Jane found a cookbook in the store called the Heart of Pittsburgh with local-to-that- area recipes. One of them is called... are you ready... grab a pen so you can write this one down

Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad!!!!!!

Yes!!! And The English Major Bookstore has the recipe!!!!!! Your local connection to gastronomical freaking delight that includes jello!!! MJ figured out, however, that the pretzel is used like a crust, not just pieces floating in jello,so we figure that makes a little more sense. I can't say it makes a whole lot more sense, just a little. She then found a recipe for 15-layer Lasagna!! Or how about an Onion and Red Pepper Tart? Mmmm...yummy. Are you craving some Bubbles and Squeak? Bubbles and Squeak is an old Irish recipe consisting of cabbage, mashed potatoes, bacon drippings, onion and salt and pepper to taste. The sound it makes when it's cooking (bubbling and squeaking, I assume) is the sound of the witches escaping! This dish is served on Halloween in Ireland. Used bookstores are the coolest- it's like stepping into a classroom with no pressure, no tests, no pop quizes, just knowledge and broadened horizons and ideas! Did you really think when you sat down to read this blog that you would learn so much about Pittsburgh???

Another good recipe-Junk in the Oven- ground beef, tomatoe soup, onion, carrots, celery.

Come on down and check this book out!!!

Happy Memorial Day weekend all!

Thanks for reading my blog and please, let other people know about this blog. I can't figure out Google Analytics so I can't tell if anyone is reading this. If you can help me figure out the analytics, I would really appreciate it and might just make you a Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad!

Light and Love, all.

2010-05-24T20:07:00.002-05:00

Hi! No real nwe news from the Bookstore front in sunny Midtown Memphis. Not much going on other than Fritz came back. I took him to my bf Chris' house temporarily but he is back and ready to purr at your feet, admire your literary choices or watch you from afar as you browse my constantly updated book collection. I hate not being at the store as much as I would usually am, but Mother Nature and I are working on a solution. The hotter it gets, the later I go out to drive a carriage and the more time I can spend at the store! It's a freaking win/win!
S'all for now.
Light and Love, all.

We Are Finally Open Late!!

2010-05-13T00:30:00.002-05:00

"If cats suddenly disappeared, it would only be a matter of weeks before rodents completely overran the planet."
-The Cat Lovers Book of Days, @ 1991

Something to put in your pipe and smoke, eh? The bookstore is well,healthy and sound. I found a great new addition to our staff, so joining Lily, Zan and Mary Jane is Brad who will be at the store Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday nights until 9 p.m. We are finally open late!! I will likely trek on down to Joe's on Saturday nights to get and keep a chilled box of white wine up there for partying book lovers who can't decide which fork in the road to take- drink or read. I, sadly, will not be there as I will be where I am most days these days (when not with my boyfriend, Chris:)), and that is behind Bonnie the Clyde, giving tours downtown. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy all the amenities The English Major Bookstore has to offer. For example, we are now a cross-ventilating establishment, having installed both front and back screen doors. As usual, the coolest cat in Midtown, Fritz, will always be around to be just plain friendly to you and gorgeous to be around. Our prices are great, our selection is awesome and changing often. I ask you honestly, what more could you ask for from the coolest little used bookstore in Midtown? (Yeah, I said it. The Flyer might not have said it, but I will!!:)
Take care, read well and come by Late Night!!

RIP, Wild Bill

2010-04-26T13:04:00.002-05:00

We lost a wonderful carriage driver recently, Wild Bill Grey, who was not just a great person to have as co-worker on the streets, but a great man overall. He will be very missed by so many folks.
RIP, Bill.

I love IloveMemphisblog.com!

2010-04-24T14:57:00.001-05:00

The store got reviewed by IloveMemphisblog.com and here is the link! Yay!

http://ilovememphisblog.com/2010/04/20/used-books-for-the-borrowing-at-the-english-major-bookstore/

The Heart's Way

2010-04-16T12:53:00.002-05:00

Quick post as I am, again and as usual, on the run. Just finished The Heart is A Lonely Hunter, finally, by Carson McCullers and loved it. I have been slightly haunted by the title as it is an extremely aptly named book. That the heart really is a lonely hunter, that much I can wrap my mind around, it's the context in which this idea is used to describe her characters that is very poignant to me. The characters are ideologists (although aren't we all?). But it is the pursuit of a life lived up to the ideals of one's personal ideologies which is, or can be, a lonely pursuit for the heart. I highly reccomend this book!.
Anyway, I then proceeded to lighten up my reading regimen by reading Lady Killer by Lisa Scottoline. I always liked her last name and finally just picked it up and couldn't put it down. It's a thriller having to do with a female lawyer and the Mob, set in South Philly and definitely not my regular kind of book, but one I have really been enjoying .
Store wise, not that ANYONE is actually reading my blog (sniff, sniff), I did get in a bunch of current ( within the last 5 or 6 years) fiction, and there have been organizational elves in the store, making sure sections are easily accessible as well as clean and dust free!
So come on by or leave a comment so I don't feel, as I do every six months or so, that I am absolutely typing into a void.
Thanks and have an awesome 80 degree, Memphis weekend!

The Tao De English Major

2010-03-31T11:33:00.002-05:00

That's nice- I am now posting once a every four weeks- go, Karin!! Good Lord, you would think I could take the time... oh, wait, that's right- time!! That thing I never have enough of, that thing they say is an illusion anyway. I enjoy posting and am not exactly sure why I haven't of late. Funny story- I watched Miss Austin Regrets (Austen? I forget) and got online soon after. The way I was writing was so funny, so reminiscent of that time. It was great. So, I have hired some people in the store and I will be out of the store more than usual- out marketing or driving a carriage or yes, occasionally, I will probably be found lounging in the park. I am still looking to hire some people, so definitely get in touch with me if you are interested in some part-time work. New 'employees' are automatically signed up for the Lending Library and can borrow 3 books at a time per month- deal of the century!!
So, I have a Facebook account for the store now- well, actually, I did before, but couldn't post comments from it and I mean, really, what's the point of FB if not to tell everyone what you're thinking about! So, now, instead of The English Major Bookstore, I can be found under English Major. I always think it's pretty funny when names like that haven't already been chosen. Anyway, in addition to new people in the store, I have been shelving and categorizing and getting rid of old books, putting new ones on the shelves. I just got in a bunch of stuff regarding The Tao De Ching, including a copy of the book itself as well as all kinds of people's take on the book, including Alan Watts'. Lots of new paperback fiction, history- all kinds of stuff- oh- new Art books!! Come and check it all out at your leisure and meet my newest representatives of The English Major Bookstore- they all seem as glad to be here as I am to have them!!
Let's see- personally, I was reading the only novel that Ranier Maria Rilke ever wrote called The Notebooks of Malte Laurids Brigge. I have been a huge Rilke fan for ages, but never knew he wrote a novel. So, I was pretty over the moon about it and was enjoying it immensely- it's the kind of book that you have to put down every now and then and just kind of reflect and be like Radar on the old M*A*S*H episodes, when he's all reflective about Bach, "Ahhhh, Bach!" You just kind of sit for a second, thinking, "Ahhhh, Good Ole Rilke." Never disappointing, other than you know that it is the only novel you'll ever read by him which is a little bittersweet. But Then!!! About a month ago, I sold my only copy of Carson McCullers' The Heart is a Lonely Hunter and was slightly torn about selling it- kind of asking they guy who bought it," You sure you want this?" So, never having read it and knowing it is at the top of the list for a lot of people's Favorite Books Ever, I had a copy come in, so I have decided to share reading time between Carson and Rilke and am enjoying both. Got up early the other day to go for a beautiful walk in 67 degree weather, then realized I could just blow off the walk and read all morning, which, of course, I did.
Hope all is well in ya'lls worlds!
As always, come take a carriage ride and support your local bookstore!
http://www.carriagetoursofmemphis.com/

Loved 'The Invention of Lying'

2010-03-04T13:04:00.002-06:00

Watched this movie last night called The Invention of Lying and just had to reccomend it. It's about a world where no one lies, where you believe everything everyone tells you because you know they are telling you the truth. Then, smeone invents lying. It's great! I love movies like this, not really sci-fi, but fantasy like. It was fantastic, in both senses of the word.
I had last night off and was shelving books till about 10 p.m. I went through about ten boxes, one of which was from the back of the store, which, if you know anything about the bookstore, you know the back is chock full of boxes of books. The other nine or so boxes were books that were brought in in trade over the past few months, so there is a lot of new stuff on the shelves, in all cataogories, stuff that I am, quite frankly, pretty excited about. Not that I am not excited about what's already up there, but the new stuff is pretty cool. Quite the description, huh? But it's accurate, so what can I say? Come check it out and if you're going to Reba and George tonight, have fun and take a carriage ride!!

I am the Master of my Fate!

2010-03-02T12:40:00.003-06:00

I have a grey, hooded sweatshirt I like wearing, but don't wear very often. This is one of those days that it just feels entirely appropriate to wear a grey hooded sweatshirt. The beginning of a new work week for me, my Monday, if you will. I have plans to put more books for sale online as well as empty about 8 boxes of books that have been brought into the store in the last 6 months and promptly went into storage. I also plan to write and make a Green Smoothie. That is the essential me, in a nutshell. Exciting, huh? Kind of riveting, aren't I? Glad you checked my blog? Well, I will leave you with a life- enhancing quote from Best Quotations For All Occasions, edited by Lewis C. Henry, @ 1951.

First, a random one:
Think of your forefathers!
Think of your posterity!
- John Quincy Adams, 1802

Another random one, for sheets and giggles:

It matters not how straight the gate,
How charged with punishment the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
-W.E. Henley, Invictus

Yeah! And one about writing, or literature or supporting your local Used Bookstore:

Come to The English Major Bookstore
for the English Major in Everyone!
-Me
:) Take care, have a great day and read more books!

I am, Still.

2010-02-25T00:38:00.001-06:00

This is an FYI about some new books I just got in and have shelved:

1. I got about 10 or 12 comic book/ graphic novels, most of the Batman and Robin related. They are bound so they aren't really comic books, but that's the only way I could describe them.

2. I got a copy of Donna Tartt's The Secret History, which I really liked and enjoyed much more than her second novel, The Little Friend.

3. I have put some really interesting books in the Entertainment section having to do with Operas and the appreciation of them. One describes the basic premises for all the major and important operas throughout time, I would suppose, not knowing when opera actually started!

I am. Still looking for PT help, that is- Thursday nights especially, from 4-9. Let me know if you are interested or know someone who is!

"I am."

2010-02-23T22:07:00.004-06:00

"I am."

That is a new meditation technique I have found very centering. Instead of listening to your thoughts about what you are, you stay in the present moment and you just are, telling yourself, "I am." Love it.

Still accepting applications for part-time day and evening work. Please come by and talk to me if you are interested or tell whoever you think might be interested to stop by or call.
Book wise, I just got in five fairly recent (one is @ 2009) political science books, two of which are by Bob Woodward. I also have some really interesting opera books I plan on shelving tomorrow and if anyone is interested, all of the Sweet Valley High books I have are going to Salvation Army on Thursday, so if you are interested, come scoop them up. Actually, as a reward for whoever it is that reads my blog, I am sending about 6 or 7 boxes of books to Salvation Army, so if you get here before they do, which is sometime on Thursday, you can take your pick. I also have some clothes donated to me that I will be sending along as well.

Finished Cape Random by Bernice Morgan and can't wait to get her sequel. My Mom is reading The Book Thief and like everyone, says it is awesome. I am reading Irving Stone's Lust For Life, about Vincent Van Gogh. I seem to love stories about male artists. Not sure why. I am also almost done with Eckhart Tolle's A New Earth, which I have thoroughly enjoyed. And, truth be told, I am in the middle of 64 other books as well. I read Edward Albee's The Zoo today, which I have read before, but still found disturbing, and am in the middle of another play from a book called Famous American Plays of the 1950's. Can't find the book right now or I would tell you the name of the play. That is that. Too cold for carriage driving, warm enough for reading and writing, meditating and Netflix. C'est la vie.

I survived The Valentine's Day Blizzard 2010

2010-02-15T15:41:00.002-06:00

I Survived

The Valentine's Day Blizzard

2010

I did survive The Valentine's Day Blizzard, if anyone cares. I'm getting t-shirts made up. I don't care if the snow only lasted for two hours and may not have technically been a blizzard, it felt like one and I made it through alive. Last night was the worst carriage driving weather I've ever been in, in five years. It was so bad, it was funny. The streets downtown that dead end into the river are absolutely brutal on cold days, but last night, with snowflakes the size of my palm and 20 mph winds, I couldn't help laughing. It was unreal! But I survived with no lasting injuries, just bone tired and worn out. Writing this blog entry and reading are the only two things I am doing today that are book related. Or horse related, for that matter. Oh, and this entry has nothing to do with books other than the fact that I am reading several of them. Started Where Angels Fear To Tread by E.M. Forester even though I am am the end of Cape Random by Bernice Morgan, which has taken an interesting turn in the last quarter of the book. I suppose I will have to muster the energy to turn pages, but that is all the work I am doing today. And dehydrating Eggplant Bacon. I know, eggplant what?? I am very excited about it and since it's my day off, I don't have to explain anything to anyone. Feisty, huh? Did I mention it was my day off?

She Loved Words

2010-02-11T15:11:00.002-06:00

That's what a friend of mine told me is going to be on her tombstone when she shuffles off this mortal coil. I thought that was great and have decided to copy her. If she is dead and gone, I figure, then she won't be able see that my tombstone! I love words- It's great! Faith is a new favorite of mine. It is supposed to be the antidote to fear and the only effective way, actually, to combat fear. Fear that I might not win Powerball, that's a legitimate fear, right? Well, then, I will just have faith that I will win and that will be that.
At the store, wow, I have had a massive amount of help shelving books- there are many, many new books on the shelves. I am still accepting applications for Thursday- Sunday nights, 4-9 p.m., commission only (but a substantial commission, based on experience). You won't be required to do much which will offer you plenty of time to get to know what books I have which will, of course, increase your sales. That is the job in its entirety- let me know if you are interested.
What else? Reading a book called Cape Random by Morgan somebody- sorry, I don't have the book in front of me- and am enjoying it. It's set in the early 1880's and concerns an English family who had to leave England and arrives in Newfoundland and what they experience during their time there. It is kind of Little House on the Prarie-ish, except with a little more death. The amount of thrift and plain old hard work that went into survival for them makes me look at the easy-peasy life I live. When I want clean clothes, I just go wash them. I don't have to be sure I work all summer and fall in the hopes of being able to trade enough fish for detergent. I thought about putting the book down when I was about 100 pages into it, but am glad I didn't. I was slightly boring, but has picked up since then.
Raw food potluck is tonight at Whole Foods- 7 p.m. Bring or buy a dish there worth $5. Usually, there are amazing foods and wonderful people.
Other than that, I would have to say, everything else is same ole, same ole. As a carriage driver, this is the slowest time of the years, January and February, so every day that brings us closer to Spring is a good day!
Take care.

Help Wanted at The English Major Bookstore!

2010-01-29T11:35:00.004-06:00

Well, I guess they weren't kidding about this icy rain and snow. I listened to Drake and Zeke at night last night and they were speculating that we might not get anything at all, bad weather wise. But there is snow and ice all over the place. Another thing I wanted to note today was that I finished my first John Grisham novel, The Brethren, and really enjoyed it. I am reading a book now called Man is The Prey by James Clark about how vulnerable (wo)man is to he animal kingdom. It was written in 1969, but, for instance, Mr. Clarke claims that before 1966, 50% of all deaths in Vietnam were from insect bites and that over 40,000 people every year are killed by snake bites. I have been wanting to read this book for a while, but am finally getting a chance to.
Not sure if I have mentioned this yet ( I am pretty sure I haven't), but the store is going to be open late starting sometime in February. I am shooting for Thur- Sun, noon till 9 or 10 p.m. In that same vein, I am officially putting out a Help Wanted sign, although I am doing it via the Internet, so I am not sure how official that is, but you get the point. I need people from about 4-9, all four nights and if you are not available all the time, maybe you want to sign on for every other Friday night or something. I am very open to time sharing. Please give me a call if interested or know someone who is.
That's all I've got, folks. That and the night off, thanks to the weather. Third weekend in a row that we carriage drivers have gotten the short end of the stick. I believe we have angered the Carriage Gods somehow, but am unsure exactly how. Will be at home, tonight, contemplating that very issue. Take care all.

"English majors in college show up in my writing workshops years later, after trying a career in another field, because a dream was born in them back in school when they read Dostoevsky, Thomas Mann and Virginia Wolf, and they can't get it out of their heads. So after a few years as computer programmers, they see it doesn't give them that kind of hard rain in the afternoon outside the window. They know there is something else and that it's in their own brain. I honor English majors. It's a dumb thing to major in. It leads nowhere. It's good to be dumb, it allows us to love something for no reason. That's the best kind of love."
-Natalie Goldberg, Wild Mind - Living the Writer's Life, p. 140

Writing Workshop Tonight!!!

2010-01-18T23:43:00.003-06:00

WRITING WORKSHOP TONIGHT

TUESDAY, JANUARY 19 FROM 6:30 TO 8:30

Hosted by The Mid-South Writer's Group

$20 (Student Discount- $15)

Call for more information

(901) 833-3099

Life is full of challenges, eh? I have been reading a book called Your Freedom To Be about how people's lives can change when they see reality for what it is; namely, that we are all a part of One Presence, One God, etc. With my head in said cloud, happy, calm, content, I have fallen behind on my AT&T bill. As such, I have been temporarily cast out from the Internet community and, as such, am having to use my Carriage Driving Boss' Wifi ( I think that is what I am using to connect on my laptop). I debated revealing this little piece of information, as it is a little embarrassing, but am divulging in order that no one wonder," Why doesn't Karin ever blog anymore? Does she think no one cares, that perhaps no one reads the blog for The English Major Bookstore? Phooey!" No, I am just a lowly carriage driver with a bookstore and it is Winter and these things happen. I will be back up and running in no time. And, things being what they are, I can't remember the name of the writer's group my friend Valentine runs but she has a Phd. in Philosophy and runs an 8-week long workshop from her home several times a year. This group is for those who don't want to sign up for the whole course, but just for one night. You have probably seen her group's book for sale in coffeeshops around town- it's called 'Mais Oui'- Valentine is awesome and I'm sure her workshop will be spectacular. Call me at the store for more information directly from her flyer. (901) 833-3099. See you on Tuesday!

Lending Library at The English Major Bookstore

2009-12-23T16:54:00.003-06:00

So many people have been coming in lately saying that they have been meaning to come in but that it has taken them until now to do it. To all, I say, Come On In!! If it is after 2 p.m., you can park in Old Zinnie's parking lot, across the street from the laundromat. I am also available by appointment, so, say you have a few free minutes, but the store is closed, feel free to call me and it is very easy for me to open for you.

Hope Christmas and all it's glory is sitting well with all of you. Personally, I've been reading a ton of good books; it seems the more I read, the more I read (actually, the inverse is true, too, the less I read, the less I seem to read!) Presently, though, I am watching a BBC movie called Fingersmith- it's awesome. Anyway, Happy Wet, Cold and Windy Holidays!!

Lending Library Up and Running- Come Sign Up!

2009-12-11T14:54:00.003-06:00

Lending Library Up and Running! Definitely come sign up - lots of people are really excited about this- it's a great service to the community! I think one of the best deals is the three month plan- for $50, you can come into the bookstore anytime you want and take out up to $25 worth of books for the next three months! Even month to month is a bargain- it comes to $20.70/month, about $5 a week to come in and take out three books at a time. Jump on this!! This is a great deal- no more books clogging up your bookshelves, no more being stuck with books you thought for sure you would read but never did, no more neglected books! Every book you have will either be read or returned- everyone wins!!

By the way, I got to go to The Raw Food Potluck last night and it was beyond awesome. Had a great time and highly encourage anyone interested in The Raw Food Lifestyle to come to the potlucks on the second Thursday of every month at the Whole Foods on Poplar at 7 p.m. Cost is $5 or bring a dish ( you can usually buy a raw food entree in the deli on those nights- very tasty stuff!!) The people are great, the food will blow your mind and the company is sparkling!!
Have a good and warm weekend!
Miss Karin

The Lending Library Here at The English Major Bookstore

2009-12-08T20:14:00.002-06:00

The All New Lending Library is now up and running here at the Bookstore. Firstly, however, I hope everyone reading this had as good a Thanksgiving as I did- I got to meet my nephew, Colin, and hang out with my brother, Mike and his wife, Amy- we played dominoes and Trivial Pursuit and I swear, if one more person tells me dominoes is a prison game- it's not!! (Or, more succinctly, if it is, it also makes a great Thanksgiving game as well.) It was a lot of fun and the whole visit did me more good than I realized. It was really, really nice to see my brother and his family, and of course my Mom and John, but I see them a lot.
Anyhoo, there is now a program at the Bookstore whereby, for a nominal and customizable fee, you can rent books for the month. There are several different plans, one of the most basic being $18.95/ month + tax to rent three books at a time. Or, if you wanted to avail yourself of the discounts that come with a multi-month plan, you could sign up for three months, three books at a time, for just $50!! (plus tax).
I tried to copy the whole plan on here, but my computer wasn't into it, at all (?!), but it is very simple. You borrow my books and bring them back on time and in like condition as when they left the bookstore and we will all be happy. If the books come back late or in bad condition, you are not allowed to be a part of the Lending Library anymore- unless you can make it up to me by paying for the book. Also, should you borrow a book and decide you cannot live without it, you can buy it for one-third off it's marked price ( The English Major Bookstore price).

How cool is all this??? I am excited about it and hope you are to. If it is not a problem, please tell your mother and father about The Lending Library at The English Major Bookstore as well as any brothers or sisters you may have and also, please let all your neighbors, coworkers, friends and acquaintances know as well. Thanks.

A Superb, Revealing, Three Page Typed Letter, Signed

2009-11-06T01:20:00.005-06:00

Superb, Revealing, Three Page Typed Letter, Signed by Jack London,

for sale on Abebooks, for a mere $15,000.

I have just begun reading Jack London and am fascinated. Read a biography called Sailor on Horseback and could not put it down. This is an excerpt from this letter that is for sale on Abebooks. I found it very interesting- enjoy!

On March 19, 1900, Maitland LeRoy Osborne of Boston's National Magazine wrote to London proposing to review his soon to be published first book, The Son of the Wolf, and requesting information. Printing of the book did not begin until March 27, and it was not published until sometime in mid or late April. London replies on March 24, 1900, ".Find herewith a couple of clippings which may be of use to you; also, I shall supplement them where I imagine it to be essential.I was born in San Francisco and am a Californian by birth as well as residence.I lived on Californian ranches until my tenth year when my family removed to Oakland.By fits and starts I acquired a grammar school education, but rough life always called to me, my whole ancestry was nomadic (its destiny apparently to multiply and spread over the earth), so at fifteen I, too, struck out into the world. I did not run away. My people knew the strain in my blood, so I went with consent. I first went faring amongst the scum marine population of San Francisco Bay, where I got down close to the naked facts of life. It was a most adventurous experience, and one (like all the rest), which I have never regretted.I there learned the rudiments of seamanship.til, the month I was seventeen, I was fitted to ship before the mast as an able seaman. Went to Japan, seal-hunting on the Russian side of the Bering Sea, etc. It was the longest voyage I ever took (seven months); life was to [sic] short to admit of more.When I was turned eighteen, having taken an interest in economics and sociology, I went tramping (to the manor born).Since then have continued those studies, but in a more conventional and theoretical way.I dabbled at high school, took a brief fling at the State University.and hurried away with the first rush into the Klondike. Having mined and camped through the Sierras and other places.Never having been unwise enough to learn a trade, I have worked at all sorts of hard labor.When in the Klondike my father died, and I returned to take charge of the family.I resolved to make the fight of my life by making my living wit with my pen. This was precarious, for my assets were nil and my liabilities legion. I was also a beginner, knew nothing of markets, methods of editors, needs, or how to furnish those needs. My literary life is thus about fourteen months old, during which time I have striven to find myself, from the writings of triolets to blank verse.to really ambitious short stories.I have turned out a vast deal of hack work. And little ambitious work. Nor have I yet been so financially situated that I could try anything long.The 'Son of the Wolf', as you will discover, is a collection of short stories. These were written to supply a pressing need for cash.and submitted successfully to Messrs. Houghton, Mifflin & Co."

Vintage Yoder Show Cart For Sale!

2009-11-03T22:08:00.011-06:00

Vintage Yoder Show Cart For Sale! This is a classic show cart built by Monroe Yoder, in like-new condition- used twice in parades, been in storage ever since! In 98% new shape- this great-looking carriage has a black lacquer body with white filigree and red shafts, crossbar, singletree and circle bar. It has a red leather seat and backrest with a flipup seat for storage. It is custom made with 48" wheels and is available to be seen by appointment Downtown. $1500. Please call Chris Mabry, a very good friend of mine, at (901) 282-2945 or email me!

Peter Pan, Where, Oh Where, Have You Gone?

2009-10-28T17:33:00.003-05:00

Someone told me where the Peter Pan Pantry moved, but I don't really care. I have also heard that Joe's is expanding. Good for them, however, again, I don't really care. I want my Peter Pan Pantry back- for the love of the gods, I have been going there since 1921, it seems like. They have been in that spot for at least, what, 20 years? And then, without any notice, that's it, it's all over, see ya. Well, thanks, Peter Pan, thanks for such a great big jolt of adulthood. Really, everything's been so cozy and warm in the world lately, we all needed more economic reality to interfere with the general going's on of little ole Midtown Memphis. Me? I'm still in Midtown, but you, Mr. Pan are not. Farewell.

"A democracy is always temporary in nature..."

2009-10-22T21:06:00.004-05:00

"A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover that they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes forthe candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, withthe result that every democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal policy, which is always followed by a dictatorship." -1787, Alexander Tyler

I have this feeling no one is reading my blog. Is this true? C'mon, people, tell me it ain't true. No one ever comments and since I can't tell how many, if any, visitors I've had, I'm kind of left hanging. Anyway, got back from Hot Springs. Saw some cool documentaries, one especially called HomeGrown, about this family in California with an urban homestead where they harvested 6,000 lbs. of food in just one year in their back yard. Very worthwhile and inspiring thing to watch. Welll, dreary night out, though not on the carrriage. Am reading the biography of Jack London after reading Call of the Wild for the first time recently. His biography, called Sailor on Horseback, is so good, I have trouble putting it down!!
Well, to whomever does read this blog still, I hope you have a great day tomorrow and all weekend!
Sincerely,
The English Major Herself,
me

The New Urban Cowboy Runs For Governor of Florida!!

2009-10-12T14:12:00.004-05:00

Michael E. Arth's Runs for Governor of Florida

The New Urban Cowboy: Towards a New Pedestrianism

This post has nothing to do with books or horses or the bookstore. It has to do with a documentary I saw in October, 2008 at The Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival. It has stuck with me for so long and I swear, I probably think about it once a day. Very worth watching if you get the chance. ( You can now get the chance as I have 18 copies of the movie for sale, cheap (normally $23, now way less- it's a donation with a $5 minimum at the store. Everyone I know who has seen it has been wowed!) The basic idea is so great, but the documentary is even greater. Truly Amazing, actually.
Michael E. Arth's idea is that eventually, in this country, we are going to have to figure out how to be a less car-centered society, as a whole, not just a few pockets of folks. His philosophy is called New Pedestrianism and an example of one of his main ideas is to turn neighborhoods around, literally. Instead of front yards facing roads and parked cars, they would face into the alleys and towards other people. Porches would be erected in the back of houses so everyone, kids included, could walk up and down the alleys safely. Things like grocery stores, art galleries, school and used bookstores would be within walking distance. In fact, everything would be within walking distance. The alleys basically become the roads, but for people. It may sound simplistic, but it is an amazing documentary. And Michael E. Arth is currently running for Governor of Florida! These are some of his websites- very worthwhile to check out!

http://www.MichaelEarth.org

(governor campaign)

http://www.MichaelEarth.com

http://www.NewPedestrianism.com

http://www.PedestrianVillages.com

http://www.VillagesfortheHomeless.org

http://www.GoldenApplesMedia.com

http://www.NewUrbanCowboy.com

http://www.LaborsOfHercules.org

http://www.UNICE.info

17 Days Since My Last Blog and These Are My Sins

2009-10-08T14:55:00.002-05:00

"17 Days Since My Last Blog and These Are My Sins" - Just a throwback to my Catholic upbringing. NO sins here, well, I don't know- is laziness a sin? I am not sure what it is with me, but I am coming to realize that when there are things to be done and I don't do them, well, that makes me lazy. I am constantly on the go, not one to just sit around, however, I believe I have a slight issue with the "L" word ( laziness, not the Showtime series) Although I just looked it up in the dictionary and lazy also means slow-moving. That is an easier pill to swallow.
Have had my wonderful helpers in several times in the past few weeks to help me shelve books, so lots of new books on the shelves. Remember, if you have a bunch of books to get rid of, you can also give me first dibs and leave the rest with me to call Salvation Army and let them come and remove the leftovers. It is a win-win, you get to get rid of stuff, always a good thing, and I get to pick through you cast-offs, something I enjoy doing. I haven't blogged in a while and I think I am making up for it with the length of this one. Although I can't honestly say that I am sure that anyone is actually taking time out of their busy days to read this, but I like to pretend you are. I had a lady come in the store the other day, however, and announce that she was from Canada and had been reading my blog for some time. So, there's one person. ;)
Take care all and make time for yourselves, whether to read or whatnot, no on is any good to anyone else if they aren't good to themselves. (Sly justification for slow-movingness? Maybe.)

Draft-Horse Show Cart For Sale

2009-09-21T23:17:00.002-05:00

Vintage Yoder Show Cart For Sale!

This is a classic show cart built by Monroe Yoder, in like-new condition- used twice in parades, been in storage ever since! In 98% new shape- this great-looking carriage has a black lacquer body with white filigree and red shafts, crossbar, singletree and circle bar. It has a red leather seat and backrest with a flipup seat for storage. It is custom made with 48" wheels and is available to be seen by appointment Downtown. $1500
Please call Chris Mabry, a very good friend of mine, at (901) 282-2945 or email me!

Heed my sandwich board!!

2009-09-15T14:01:00.000-05:00

Lovely, rainy day. A friend of mine said once that he was only really happy when it rained. I thought he was kidding, but a rainy day does offer some break from the day to day regularity of wind and sun, does it not? The store is well, more clean and orderly than usual, due to the dilligence of one motivated bookseller, yours truly. I have committed to shelving x number of books every day so as to not have my customers tripping all over themselves to get to their next new book.
As your local caring and responsible bookseller, I must urge you all to heed my sandwich board on the sidewalk. I only encourage this because I care. It says:

'Wear the old coat and buy the new book.'
-Austin Phelps

Buy 'new', of course, I mean new to you, but that goes with out saying.
Furthermore,

"Read, read, read."
-William Faulkner

Bookstore Needs Computer

2009-09-04T14:10:00.002-05:00

I need a new computer. That's all there is to it. The connection at the store is fast, but the ten-year- old computer doesn't play the same game. It is disastrously slow. I am trying to sell books on line, but it literally takes forever for websites to come up and I don't just don't have all day to wait. I work my other job five nights a week and have been trying to save up for a Netbook or Notebook, but things keep popping up. So, I figured, I would put it out there, that I am in dire need of a computer that can handle a fast connection speed. Can trade books, housekeeping, pet and housesitting skills for it, but NEED one, badly.
Thanks in advance for any help!

Will Trade Books For Tomatoes! Seriously!

2009-08-20T14:52:00.002-05:00

I keep hearing about all these folks who are overflowing with tomatoes- I want them!! In fact, I will take any fruit or vegetable that you have too many of and will trade you books for it, or will give you store credit, to be used at another time, Christmas, birthdays, perhaps? I am on The Raw Food Diet and am over three months into it. Therefore, whatever you send my way will definitely be used (juiced, eaten)- in short, your fruits or vegetables will be going to a good home! :)

By the way, we have a new Chihuahua puppy up at the bookstore! Come by and meet 13 week old Isabella!

A good night's sleep

2009-08-14T12:50:00.003-05:00

Well, I actually had a good night's sleep last night. Whenever I have had trouble sleeping, I have relied on melatonin to help me sleep and regulate my sleep patterns. The last time I used melatonin, I was half asleep all week. Wonderful Joanie at Whole Foods pointed me toward Valarian and it worked!! I am very pleased with it and slept enough that I actually felt like getting up today instead of dragging myself out of bed.
As always, ya'll, so many books have come in recently, and they are all worth every penny you pay for them. Come check things out at the store!

Vote for me, your humble, dedicated bookseller!!

2009-08-06T14:35:00.004-05:00

If you wouldn't mind considering your me,
your humble, dedicated bookseller
when you vote in the
Memphis Flyer's Best of Memphis Read er's Poll 2009,
I would be ever so grateful
and will continue to serve the reading public
to the absolute best of my abilities.
Thank you and have
a lively, spirited, joyful and relaxing day!

I Am an Experienced House/Petsitter and Am For Hire!

2009-07-23T14:41:00.003-05:00

Want to support your local bookstore, but don't have room for more books in your house? You can utilize the vast skills of your favorite local bookseller in other ways, such as allowing me to lovingly and carefully care for your home and/or pets while you are out of town. My rates are negotiable, but start at around $25/ day, more depending on the number of animals and level of care needed. Who wouldn't love to come home to a clean house after a relaxing vacation? Leave me a list and some cleaning supplies and I would gladly give your house a detail-oriented cleaning. I will make sure your dogs are walked and played with (cats, too!) as well as fish, plants and mail all taken care of. Next time you think of going out of town, think of me, The English Major for all your home and pet care needs.
Thanks, ya'll!!

You are the whole lake, grasshopper.

2009-07-04T14:20:00.002-05:00

"Having gone beyond the mind-made opposites, you become like a deep lake. The outer situation of your life and whatever happens there is the surface of the lake. Sometimes calm, sometimes windy and rough, according to the cycles and seasons. Deep down, however, the lake is always undisturbed. You are the whole lake, not just the surface, and you are in touch with your own depth, which remains absolutely still. You don't resist change by mentally clinging to any situation. Your inner peace does not depend on it. You abide in Being- unchanging, timeless, deathless- and you are no longer dependent for fulfillment or happiness on the outer world of constantly fluctuating forms. You can enjoy them, play with them, create new forms, appreciate the beauty of it all. By there will be no need to attach yourself to any of it."
Eckhart Tolle has spoken.
from The Power of Now, p.195

Here, Every Day Is A Special Day

2009-07-02T16:31:00.004-05:00

The Daily Special
There will be a Daily Special at the Store
which will be decided upon by my very own
Whim and Whimsy-
One day, it might be 15% off all Poetry
Could be 25% off all mysteries the next day-
Why not come to The English Major Bookstore
and see-
Is this Your Lucky Day?
:)

One Year Anniversary Sale, Wed.- Sat.

2009-06-17T15:09:00.003-05:00

The English Major Bookstore
One Year Anniversary Sale
This Wednesday through Saturday
June 17-June 20, 2009

All Fiction*- 50% Off!!

*Rare Books Section Excluded-
I am, however, Negotiable.

Can I believe it? No, I can't. My first year as a small business owner has come to an end. Wow! I guess the positive way to look at it is that my second year in business starts tomorrow!! Come on it and get you some books!!

I love Books!

2009-06-15T12:36:00.002-05:00

The Refuse Pile

2009-06-05T13:56:00.004-05:00

I am tired of being stolen from . I know, I know, this is Memphis, but every table I leave out in front of the store is getting stolen, even the one I wrote 'The English Major Bookstore' all over. It occurred to me last night how crazy it was to think that writing the name of the store on the table might somehow be a preventative measure for thievery. I bet there are thieves in the world who, besides taking stuff that doesn't belong to them, also know how to operate a paint brush or spray paint can and could paint over the name of my store on their new table. Whatever. Easy come, easy go (found both table in the refuse pile anyway. (trash).
Anyone with a small table for sale, feel free to get in touch with me, please. I will chain my next table to my door. Bad karma, Mr. or Ms. Thief. Bad karma.

Not Sure, But I think This Might Be INSANE

2009-06-01T15:45:00.000-05:00

Couple Ordered to Stop Holding Bible Study at Home Without Permit

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Pastor David Jones and his wife Mary have been told that they cannot invite friends to their San Diego, Calif. home for a Bible study — unless they are willing to pay tens of thousands of dollars to San Diego County.

"On Good Friday we had an employee from San Diego County come to our house, and inform us that the Bible study that we were having was a religious assembly, and in violation of the code in the county." David Jones told FOX News.

"We told them this is not really a religious assembly — this is just a Bible study with friends. We have a meal, we pray, that was all," Jones said.

A few days later, the couple received a written warning that cited "unlawful use of land," ordering them to either "stop religious assembly or apply for a major use permit," the couple's attorney Dean Broyles told San Diego news station 10News.

But the major use permit could cost the Jones' thousands of dollars just to have a few friends over.

For David and Mary Jones, it's about more than a question of money.

"The government may not prohibit the free exercise of religion," Broyles told FOX News. "I believe that our Founding Fathers would roll over in their grave if they saw that here in the year 2009, a pastor and his wife are being told that they cannot hold a simple Bible study in their own home."

"The implications are great because it’s not only us that’s involved," Mary Jones said. "There are thousands and thousands of Bible studies that are held all across the country. What we’re interested in is setting a precedent here — before it goes any further — and that we have it settled for the future."

The couple is planning to dispute the county's order this week.

If San Diego County refuses to allow the pastor and his wife to continue gathering without acquiring a permit, they will consider a lawsuit in federal court.

Fare thee well, Oh Bloggue Reader

2009-05-27T13:21:00.005-05:00

I believe it may be obvious what these are pictures of, namely, the store and me, but I figured I would post these pictures in case local folks may have forgotten what the inside of the store and I look like.
-What? What does she mean?
It has been very sloooooow at The English Major Bookstore. I am not complaining as I have been afforded the opportunity to do some much needed organizing and overall cleaning, (even on my day off!) and have put many, many, many, many new books on the shelves. Do come and check it out, at your leisure, of course.
Fare thee well, Oh Bloggue Reader.
Much Blessings.

Colin

2009-05-24T14:39:00.002-05:00

Welcome Colin James Morley, my brother Mike and his wife, Amy's, first child born May 12, 2009 at a whopping 8 oz.! Way to go, ya'll!!!

The Power of The Green Smoothie

2009-05-19T21:12:00.004-05:00

Well, I think we have all stared at my face long enough. I am at the end of my ninth day, entering my tenth, of about 99% raw food. I am really happy about it and feel flippin great. I have studied the Raw Food Diet for many years and have always been moving in that direction, but thanks to the power of The Green Smoothie, I have actually, and I think for the first time in my life, been able to overcome my cravings for junk food in all its ridiculous forms. I say ridiculous, by the way, because it has, in its name, Junk.That makes it ridiculous, no?
Green Smoothies, which have absolutely nothing to do with books or the selling thereof, are a fruit smoothie made with about 60% fruit and 40% greens. So, one big handful of greens in a fruit smoothie and there you are, A Green Smoothie. They taste great and have been immensely helpful in getting pizza to release me from its grip. Pizza and many other forms of bad nutrition can go suck an egg while I enjoy goodness.
That is it. That is all I have to say tonight is I love Green Smoothies.
Oh, and all the many books folks brought me when they were doing there spring cleaning have actually made their way to the shelves. Not all, but an awful lot- I have been shelving books like mad!
By the way, I don't eat raw meat, raw eggs or raw milk!

Hidden Bookstore Offers Escape for Patrons

2009-05-13T15:40:00.000-05:00

Hidden Bookstore Offers Escape for Patrons

Print | Front Page | Email this story | Email reporter

TOM WILEMON | The Daily News

READING IN MIDTOWN: Karin Morley, the owner of The English Major Bookstore, opened the Midtown business less than a year ago. -- PHOTOS BY TOM WILEMON

Tucked in a corner and barely visible from Madison Avenue, The English Major Bookstore is the perfect place to browse for a good read without worrying about pocketbook woes or stumbling over crowds.

“Today, a lady called it her escape,” said owner Karin Morley, who opened the store at Tap into millions of public records, notices and articles on The Daily News.

Property Search
Crime Report
Neighborhood Report
Watch Service', TITLE, 'Learn More', WIDTH, 200, SHADOW, true, STICKY, 1, CLOSEBTN, true, CLICKCLOSE, true, BGCOLOR, '#e1e1e1', BORDERCOLOR, '#7d0200', TITLEBGCOLOR, '#7d0200')" onmouseout="UnTip()">1700 Madison Ave. about 10 months ago.

Crowded comfort

Parking is limited, but Morley does get walk-in traffic because she’s sandwiched between two Midtown haunts, the Audiomania vintage record store and the Lamplighter Lounge beer and burger joint. Morley values developing repeat customers more than making a quick profit.

“I price a book based on the condition and what I think I can sell it for, but I’m a mom and pop store without the pop right now,” she said. “If you can make an offer, unless it’s a really expensive book, I want you to come back. If you have $4, I’ll take $4 for a book. That’s really been a good deal to learn how to be more generous because I want you to come back.”

The English Major is a crowded, yet comfortable space where tattered chairs are strategically placed and pets aren’t shy about claiming their spots. On a recent rainy day, Fritz, a gray and white cat, lounged in a cardbox box, while Muriel, a chihuahua-mix, stayed close to Morley.

Original art hangs high on the walls over the bookshelves. Morley said she’s looking for more artists to showcase their work.

She admits that her business is not the place to go looking for a specific book.

“Sometimes, I can fulfill that demand, but there (are) several people who go away without the book they were looking for, which makes me feel like I should have every book in the world, which I don’t,” she said.

Getting started

The business gets its name because Morley was an English major at the University of Memphis, where she graduated from in 2004. Morley is a 12-year resident of the city and also works as a carriage driver Downtown.

Owning a bookstore has been a long-time dream for Morley, who received guidance from the Memphis Renaissance Business Center and counselors from SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives).

“This is my starter store, and I really believe that. It may not be the best location, but it’s the best location for what’s going on right now.”
– Karin Morley
Owner, The English Major Bookstore

Ideally, she’d like a location with more parking, but Morley said she is considering putting a bicycle rack out front to compensate for that.

“This is my starter store, and I really believe that,” she said. “It may not be the best location, but it’s the best location for what’s going on right now. The parking is not that great. A lot of people say that. It took a long time for people to realize I was here. I’m tucked away back in a corner. I’m just not super noticeable.”

The store has about 14,000 books. Morley takes donations, buys titles and trades books.

Chris Mabry helped her clean, renovate and move into the location.

CAT NAPPING: Fritz, one of the store pets at The English Major Bookstore, soaks up some literature through his furry coat. -- PHOTO BY TOM WILEMON

“We’re in kind of economic bad times,” Mabry said. “Karen is providing reading for people who couldn’t afford it otherwise. The store is set up to be a comfortable place for people to come in, to sit down, to read a book and to look around and maybe spend some money and buy a book at a very deflated cost.”

Morley said she’s made her share of mistakes running the first-time business, such as her initial decision to stay open on Sundays.

“Nobody came in,” she said. “I was here if people wanted to come in, but nobody ever did.”

Now, she spends her Sundays Downtown taking Memphis visitors on carriage rides. Several of the people she’s met that way have ended up shopping at her store.

“A lot of times, I pull back and I think I really like being small – especially since it’s a first-time business,” Morley said. “I can make these mistakes and they are not affecting very many people.”

She said her wisest decision was to start out small with a one-woman operation, but she hopes to grow the business.

“I do want an employee at some point, or a couple of them,” Morley said. “They are going to be so well taken care of. I would appreciate them being here so much.”

2009-05-13T14:28:00.003-05:00

Well, that was not exactly the Powerball image I was looking for, but that is the front porch and hammock I would like. The store is getting cleaned today, as it just won't clean itself, no matter my prompting. Oh, Attention-Seeking store got into Monday's Daily News. I will include the link here- http://www.memphisdailynews.com/editorial/Article.aspx?id=42409
Great article, very well written. This Karin person sounds fascinating and so focused on growing her business. What does she need a Powerball win for?
Have a gorgeous day on this gorgeous day!

The store is a little bit of a ham these days.

2009-05-08T13:18:00.003-05:00

I love the '*meditate' one. I was feeling rather peaceful when I began this blog and thusly, these pictures are explained. I think that to "release all other concerns" for a few minutes every day is a great idea. I have discovered that stress-relieving techniques may not always seem to be working, right as you do them, like my new found endeavour of knitting, but it is after the fact that you notice a reduction in stress. Ommmmmm...
On a completely different subject, my family and I are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Colin, my little brother and his wife, Amy's, first baby. Any..minute..now. Michael, my bro, said it is like waiting for Christmas morning, every day. I am going to be an aunt, again. Yay! This is my eighth time to receive the honor.
By the way, English Major Blog Readers, I am going to be in The Daily News and their affiliate, The Memphis News, this coming Monday and Tuesday. Rather, the store and I are sharing the spotlight, although the store is a little bit of a ham these days. "Look at me!", "Let's advertise more!" and the like are daily occurrences coming from the store. Woe is me, I say unto you. What is a proprietress to do?
Stock incredible books at more incredible prices? That ought to do it!

The Universe is a great place to be.

2009-05-06T17:37:00.003-05:00

I have a disastrous, deep, raging gratitude for the gorgeous chair like the one shown here, which I have acquired because the Universe is a great place to be. This chair is making me happy and relaxed and I am digging it, immensely. Therefore, if you needed some reason to come by the store besides the vast array of utterly fabulous books at equally phenomonal prices, you now have it. You can come in and say,"Uh, yeah, hi, I heard there was this amazing executive chair here and I was wondering if I could, y'now, see it." I will more than likely not only show it to you but also allow you to sit in it, briefly, of course, and will do all this with as hospitable a spirit as I can muster. Will I urge you to also buy a book or two, yes, probably, but no pressure. You can just come look at (admire?) the chair. I would if I were you!
By the way, I read last night that the word spirit comes from, in many different languages, the word for breath. I Love That.
From Executive Chair Wonderland,
Miss K

2009-04-30T16:35:00.002-05:00

This is an official call for help. I am drowning and need help. If you have any free time and like to shelve books, please give me a call and we can set up some time for you to come help me, so I can continue helping all of you in your search for just the right book. (833-3099) I had some friends who helped pretty regularly, but one is en route to South Korea to teach English and the other works too much at his other job. I just need someone for an hour, here and there, to help me get some of these books put on the shelves.
Much, much obliged.
Karin

Storewise, I have called in the Calvary.

2009-04-29T00:04:00.003-05:00

I am thinking that maybe I should write that book I always wanted to write before I get an upset tummy and keel over. $1.5 billion is being asked of Congress for this Swine Flu. Wow. I should just go jump off a bridge now before the flu gets me, eh? Maybe I will just go write, instead.
Storewise, I have called in the Calvary, which consists of friends willing to work for free, to help me with the formerly mentioned Deluge of Books. I hope to see you all here soon to check it all out!
Karin M.

It is not what you do but how you do it.

2009-04-24T14:58:00.003-05:00

This is where I want to be. Jane does, too. Instead she is here at the store helping me with the deluge of , what I assume to be, Spring-Cleaning books that folks have brought in for trade. Please, don't mistake what I am saying- a DELUGE, also known as:

avalanche, barrage, cataclysm, cataract, drencher, flux, inundation, niagara, overflowing, overrunning, pour, rush, spate, torrent

I have so many new books that have come in recently that it is almost weird. Great prices, great selection, great service. That is what you get when you come to The English Major Bookstore. Plus, you get to talk to girls (women) who want to be out in the country side, where the firetrucks and ambulances come by so infrequently, it is not worth mentioning. What more could you ask from your gently-used book buying experience? Free coffee? Got it. Free books? Even have some of those. A wonderfully cool space with a cement floor that keeps the air about ten degrees cooler than outside- you got it here!
Hope to see you All, soon.
And remember:
It is not what you do, but how you do it, that counts.

Obviously, I could stop anytime, but I like it.

2009-04-19T11:22:00.003-05:00

This is a picture from some New England blog and it relates to Facebook Addicts. Under the picture, it said something to the effect of," If you are addicted to Facebook, you definitely know what this picture is about." Hmmm...I am on Facebook and obviously, I could stop anytime, but I like it.
Store is closed and I am off to do all the things you do on a day "off"!

Like soggy freakin bread

2009-04-18T14:37:00.005-05:00

Notice how these things are diametrically opposed. A rainy Saturday for a Carriage Driver is like soggy freakin bread. Like finding one half of a $1,000 bill. Like no one showing up for the party you throw. It is like a lot of things, but is it not, like, cool. I enjoy being a Carriage Driver, a lot, but a rainy Saturday, well, I think I have made my point.
The Creator of the Universe has a plan for me, his creation, and part of it must be to not drive a carriage today. Harumph. I accept what I cannot change.
I guess.

Hi, Mom! Love you!!

Stupid Winter, Go Away!!

2009-04-17T12:31:00.002-05:00

I surely love me some sunshine!!! I am going to sit down and read from Psalms in The Bible. Read some last night and was very moved. Yes, the store is open and yes, I am going to this reading and coffee drinking on company time, but I think, I think, it will be okay. Can you believe Memphis in May is only two weeks away?!? Does this mean that Spring will actually, really be here? Stupid Winter, Go Away!!
Take care all and hope to everyone is doing really well during these decidedly weird, strange and trying times. Don't let the b*st***s get you down! ( I've been waiting to say that for quite a while.)
Take Good Care of Yourself, Dear Reader!

The Literary Scene

2009-04-16T16:19:00.003-05:00

That is where I feel like I am, Sniffle Station, USA. I have recently experienced a brief respite from said sniffling, but had already located this picture on Google Image, so I thought I would go with it. Beautiful, gorgeous day- soooo many new books have come in that I really wish some folks would come in and buy them because I am feeling a little overwhelmed when I think of finding the time to shelve all these books. If you care about the literary scene in Midtown Memphis, come help me. Buy my books. Make them yours.
Please.
:)

Revolt Loudly!

2009-04-15T16:42:00.000-05:00

I still don't understand how a Tea Party is going to improve anything but one's mood. :) Wish I was going to the one in Audobon Park, but I can't make it. I hope they all revolt loud enough for the real leaders of the world to hear.
Amen.

The she being me

2009-04-13T12:06:00.001-05:00

It's raining, the store is closed and I am going to go finish up my taxes, with some qualified help, of course. Finished the Biography on Hunter S. Thompson (Fear and Loathing; The Strange and Terrible Saga of HST) by Paul Perry and it was awesome. That's it, that's all she wrote.

The she being me.
Bye!

Say your peace, Bunny!

2009-04-11T16:01:00.006-05:00

Thank God for Over the Counter Pain Meds.
Ladies, I believe you know of what I speak.
Nuff said.
I am feeling rather peaceful now and
in searching for a peaceful image,
I found a bunny meditating,
which, to me, says enough.
Plus I have to go to work here in a minute
and a making this quick.
Say your peace, Bunny!
(Does this read like a poem?
It's not.
Or is it?)
:)

Lo

2009-04-10T13:35:00.003-05:00

Busy, busy, busy. Trying to get caught up after my brief stint in Central Arkansas. Am actually making progress in said catching up, but, lo, it leaves such little time for blogging. I must run and sell my million dollar quota today in used books. Won't you help me make that quota (I think I have been listening to WKNO too much lately!)
Take good care, fellow readers.

Employ Its Fake Self For Now

2009-04-08T23:47:00.002-05:00

Not feeling particularly happy about being back in Memphis. My vacation was rejuvenating and peaceful and I don't want it to end, but I am back, so it is over. The peace will remain though perhaps not the rejuvenation. Actually, I believe I need to meditate more and live more in the present moment and that doing so will go a long way towards reviving whatever it is I feel needs to juvinated in the first place. Is juvinated a word? Apparently not, but as it fits the meaning I am trying to convey, I will employ its fake self for now, but not ever again. Unless necessary of course.
Come by and say Hi! So many good books up here, it is ridiculous. Read faster people!!

No Horses, No Books

2009-04-07T10:01:00.004-05:00

Little delinquent blogger am I, eh? And guess what? I am not doing much of a blog today, either. I am in the middle of 48 hours of

"no horses, no books"

and apparently, tht means no blogging either. Who knew?

Hope all is well. Jane kept the store open yesterday as a trial run for being open on Mondays and two people came in. Hmmm... that doesn't bode well for Mondays. Other than that, the angry and unhappy wind has finally calmed down here in Hot Springs and it is peaceful outside. Cold but serene. And I am going to get back to doing not much of anything.

Take care!

Jane

2009-04-05T10:36:00.002-05:00

I am going to Hot Springs, AR today to see my fair mother and I can't wait. I will be gone till Wednesday- my friend Jane will be watching the store, so take it easy on her. Will I blog from Hot Springs? Why, yes, I will. Any other questions, write them down and ask me when I get back. I will see you all on Wednesday.
Take good care!

2009-04-04T14:33:00.004-05:00

Yes, that is the infamous Bonnie. Should you have the sincere pleasure of knowing me personally (!), you likely know that I am a carriage driver downtown and the horse I drive is a cover girl this month! Bonnie is a registered Clydesdale and is the only Clydesdale downtown. She is about 9 years old and is awesome. I would not have opposed to being on the cover with her, but whatever. Always know, I am more than happy to arrange reservations for a fabulous carriage ride through the store! Come on down and see me for more details!

Carriage Tour of Memphis
Half-hour tour, $45
Full Hour, $75
Taxis available
Pickup anywhere downtown

The other picture is becasue I love the sun! Lovely day at the store, have gotten lots of new books in recently, come on down and check it out!
Sincerely,
Miss Karin

It's face is completely blank.

2009-04-03T15:43:00.003-05:00

Wonderful picture. (I would make a great art critic, wouldn't I? "The art I saw at tonight's opening was great, really great. In fact, it was downright pretty.")
Lovely day, both inside and out of the bookstore. Have had several people come in, some bought things, some didn't, although looked like they were thinking about it. One of the main things going on in my life pertains to my phone. The face on the phone has gone completely blank, except for about eleven second, once a day. I can still receive phone calls but I don't have anyone's phone numbers memorized. So, my life has quieted down, considerably. I like it this way, however, if anyone has an AT&T Nokia or any other kind of AT&T compatible phone they never use, please, let me take it off your hands. I believe there might be an exchange of books, if you play your cards right. (I can pay in cash or books.:)
I have to go now, I have 483,645 thing I have to do before I go work tonight.
Btw, anyone wants an adorable, I mean really sociable, little kittens, let me know!

Book Girl

Stillness Speaks

2009-04-02T12:13:00.004-05:00

I am rather excited by this rain storm we are having. Storms can create such logistical problems like flooding, electrical outages, etc., but for me, for now, it is just raindrops on the ceiling. I know the rain could turn severe and that the possibility for this exists for the rest of the day. Maybe it's the Hunter S. Thompson biography I am reading that puts me in a bit of a mood, but I like a day like this. I like it kind of dark, quiet, sedate. It is definitely different from yesterday.
Webster's Dictionary defines boring as "causing or marked by boredom, uninteresting and tiresome; dull" and includes the synonyms monotonous, tedious, irksome and humdrum. I do not oppose 'boring' in theory. I love that a tree grows, but to watch it growing, minute by minute, is boring, for sure. I even embrace the idea that the more things change, the more they stay the same. I am reading part of a book about Adult Children of Alcoholics. One of the things Adult Children tend to do is deal with the problems of the past, in the present. In other words, they will work hard to find solutions for problems that were huge in the past, as a child, but which no longer exist in the present moment. Like moving to a new city, or country, expecting not to have to deal with the people or situations in your life which were bothering you in the first place, only to find them again, in your new home, just with different faces. One of my favorite books is Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle. He says that all of nature is waiting for us to just be with it. I have 'Be Here Now' written on my backyard fence. I say all this to show that I am not necessarily a revolutionary, I do like sameness and non eventfulness as they are, in essence, peace.
However, as a part Sagitarius girl, I love this weather. I believe I need a vacation.

I am quite Irish of blood.

2009-04-01T13:33:00.002-05:00

Heck of a picture. I went for a walk on the river today and it was fantastic. I am on the cusp of Sagittarius and, as such, routine has the ability to make me insane. Too much of almost the exact same thing, day after day, makes me want to gouge my eyeballs out. I like my eyes, however, and I like having eyes, so I am on a campaign of doing the things I always think about doing but don't do, things that are good and healthy for me. I have decided that if I don't do these things, who will? Who will enjoy fresh air and good books for me if not me? It is, in essence, my job to ensure that things never get so bad that I want to remove God-given parts from my body, especially such overtly necessary parts as eyes.
However, if anyone ever comes to the store and finds me not there during regular business hours, please know that I want to be there. The store is a favorite haunt of mine. I love being there. If I am not there, it is not intentional nor personal. It means I set aside x amount of time to do something and have run over my time limit. I am quite Irish of blood and we, as a people, are want to do that. Please know that I am not at a movie and am definitely not out drinking and/or cavorting, but am merely accomplishing routine tasks at a slow rate. In other words, the fun I have during store hours is at the store. And I do have fun there. Lots of it. Mommy just needs to find other places and activities to balance out all the fun she has at the store.
Having said all that, I have to say that I am really enjoying blogging more. Maybe my blog isn't as interesting (!) or entertaining as some, but it is mine and I like it. A lot. Hope you all do to. Feel free to comment or, you could show your support by buying more books than your current living space can handle. It's the only way to be.
Sincerely,
Book Girl

I have consulted Weather dot com.

2009-03-31T14:05:00.003-05:00

It was raining this morning, but with my carriage-driving expertise, I have consulted Weather.com and concluded that, except for a 30% chance of a few showers around 4 or 5 o'clock, we are clear for the remainder of the day. Why am I sharing this with you? To entice you to the store, of course. It is a beautiful 63 degrees, the door is open, the fan is circulating a fresh breeze, the cats and dog are happy and well fed ( the dog is actually a little sore, I believe, after a long walk through Overton Park yesterday) and the store has been classed up a bit with Pam Gambles photographs sprinkled throughout. It is quite nice up here, if I do say so myself.
The 25% off sale was a smashing success, but there are still books left for you! Hope to see you soon!

I think I will go read one.

2009-03-30T11:15:00.004-05:00

Well, it has occurred to me that perhaps my current method of blogging is not, necessarily, the best way for me. I am new to having my own blog, this being my first, and have recently concluded that I don't have to post full page entries, every time I blog. I could do tiny little ones, mentioning every day occurrences at the store. Usually, when I think about blogging about the store, I think, "Well, there are a lot of books up here, they are all for sale, I think I will go read one." It is easy to see how I tend to talk myself out of blogging at all, leaving a lonely English Major website wondering what it did wrong to cause me to go away. But upon perusal of another used bookstores' blog, I realized I could post tiny little updates about the store. Like, I got new used stereo speakers the other day and can rock out now when no one is around! Yay!
The End.

This Weekend Only - Huge Sale!!

2009-03-25T18:38:00.002-05:00

This Weekend Only - Huge Sale!!
25% Off (almost) Everything In The Store!!!!
*Rare Books Section Excluded*
Friday, Saturday and Sunday March 27, 28 and 29
Open at Noon, Close at 5 p.m.

"The sale of books
and buying of books on sale
is the coolest."
-Karin Morley
Blogspot.com

New Works: Photographs by Pam Gamble

2009-03-24T16:24:00.004-05:00

Come See
New Works: Photographs by Pam Gamble

Apparently, I have become too Facebooky as I publicized the first ever Art Opening at The Bookstore last Friday on Facebook, but not on my blog. The opening was great - Pam is a friend whose new work is a departure from what she calls her "usual tidy" photography. Her artist statement alone was wonderful, but her photographs were stunning. I was really impressed with her work and based on people's comments , I wasn't the only one. Do yourself a favor and come check it out ( the show will hang until May 5, 2009)!

Oh, and the store got a serious, hardcore cleaning, too, which is nice. It gets a little cluttered around here sometimes, but not anymore. A place for everything and everything in it's place (yeah, right!) It feel fittingly new Springlike around here, though and in that spirit, I am going to try to blog more often. As I have mentioned before, this is my first blog and though I consider myself a bit of a writer, I am not used to this format and suppose I will only become used to it through practice.

I love the Bookstore, though, and hope you will come and enjoy it with me!
Open Six Days a Week at Noon, Closed on Mondays.

********************************************************

"Meditation technique:
Sit and smile."

-From Eat Pray Love
by Elizabeth Gilbert
(which I just finished today and thoroughly enjoyed!)

Ahhhhh - Second Ever poetry Night Cancelled!!!!!! Oh, The Humanity!!!

2009-03-16T02:11:00.010-05:00

What I am trying to say with pictures, folks, is that I screwed up. I have to cancel this week's Poetry Night. I am really, really sorry but I drive a carriage and have to drive on St. Patrick's Day!! How about Wednesday instead?

Second Ever Poetry Night - Tuesday, March 17 - St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-13T22:47:00.003-05:00

Yay! The Second Ever Poetry Night is happening next week. Yes, it is on St. Patrick's Day so I won't be offended if you can't make it because you already have plans. However, I think having it on St. Pat's Day is offering folks a different way to celebrate the holiday. I would think that it just might happen that there would be a lot of Celtic poetry - who knows? For those who didn't make it to the First Ever Poetry Night, it consists of reading your own poetry or other people's poetry, whichever you prefer, open-mike style without a mike.I will provide the coffee, you bring whatever you would like. We will start at 7 p.m. and end whenever.
I look forward to seeing every single one of you there. Here. You understand.

"A poem should not mean but be."

Poetry Quote by Archibald MacLeish
American Poet (1892-1982)

"To have great poets there must be great audiences too."

Poetry Quote by Walt Whitman
American Poet (1819-1892)

Harumph.

2009-02-27T22:55:00.006-06:00

Cute picture, I thought. Lovely weather we are having here in Memphis. Too hot for a sweater one day, not enough sweaters to stay warm the next. Harumph. Perfect time to read, I would say; although when isn't the perfect time to shut it all out, "escape from the world", as they say at the spas, and read, read, read!
I have been learning about:
* Modern French painters, because I always wondered about them.
*The Ancient Greeks and Greece - very interesting.
*Communism - ugh.
*Monty Python
I have learned a little about these and nine million other things, as I tend to plop down and read whenever I can, which, of course, explains the dust gathered in the store. I know a little about a lot, you could say. You know more, I am sure. Come in and we'll chat about it!
I think, if there are no copyright infringements, I would love for this little mouse guy to be the bookstore symbol. He has struck my fancy. His name is...

First Ever Poetry Night!! Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 7 p.m.

2009-02-21T13:21:00.004-06:00

A poem begins with a lump in the throat.
		Robert Frost

Yay! The first ever Poetry Night at The English Major Bookstore - I am really excited. This night will include poetry, poetry and more poetry. Is it Open Mike? Yes. Will there actually be a mike? No. I love poetry and I write a little, but I am thinking this Poetry Night might include whatever poetry you want to share, be it yours, others, your favorite poem, perhaps?
I would love it if you could RSVP if you plan on coming as this is the first happening of it's kind at the store and as you may or may not know, the store is not huge. I think I can swing quite a few seats, but not tons. I am a sober person, but figure alcohol would be okay - BYOB sound good?
Yay! I am excited. The store closes at 6, so if we want to start at about 7 or so and go till whenever. Well, maybe not whenever, but until we know longer feel the urge!

Good poetry could not have been otherwise written than it is. The first time you hear it, it sounds rather as if copied out of some invisible tablet in the Eternal mind than as if arbitrarily composed by the poet.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Rainer Maria Rilke

2009-02-17T14:36:00.002-06:00

If your daily life seems poor,
do not blame it; blame yourself
that you are not poet enough
to call forth its riches;
for the Creator, there is no poverty.
-Rainer Maria Rilke

Let life happen to you.
Believe me: life is in the right,
always.
-Rainer Maria Rilke

I Need a Grant Writer!!

2009-01-30T15:15:00.004-06:00

If you or someone you know qualifies as a grant writer, please get in touch with me. I need someone to write up some proposals for me as I would like to think I qualify for something. Do I have any qualms about publicly announcing this need? None, whatsoever!

There is no happiness in having and getting,
but only in giving.
Half the world is on the wrong scent
in the pursuit of happiness.
F.W. Gunsaulus

There is a time to be born,
and a time to die, says Solomon,
and it is the memento of a truly wise man;
but there is an interval between
these two times of infinite importance.
-Richmond
Leaves of Gold

The New Urban Cowboy

2009-01-29T00:21:00.002-06:00

http://newurbancowboy.com/goldenapples/for-languages/nuc-english-video.htm
The New Urban Cowboy: Towards a New Pedestrianism
This post has nothing to do with books or horses or the bookstore. It has to do with a documentary I saw last October at The Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival. It has stuck with me for so long and I swear, I probably think about it once a day. Very worth watching if you get the chance. The basic idea is so great, but the documentary is even more great. Truly Amazing, actually.
Michael E. Arth's idea is that eventually, in this country, we are going to have to figure out how to be a less car-centered society, as a whole, not just a few pockets of folks. An example of one of his main ideas is to turn neighborhoods around, literally. Instead of front yards facing roads and parked cars, the would face into the alleys and towards other people. Kids could walk up and down the alleys safely and grocery stores would be within walking distance. In fact, everything is within walking distance. The alleys basically become the roads, but for people. It may sound simplistic, but it is an amazing documentary.
Have had three customers in three days.Getting a lot of reading done! Winter is so cool.
Stay Warm!

Where is human nature so weak as in the bookstore? - Henry Ward Beecher

2009-01-21T00:50:00.002-06:00

To feel most beautifully alive means to be reading something beautiful,
ready always to apprehend in the flow of language the sudden flash of poetry.
-Gaston Bachelard

Read not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and take for granted;
nor to find talk and discourse; but to weigh and consider.
Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed,
and some few to be chewed and digested:
that is, some books are to be read only in parts,
others to be read, but not curiously, and some few
to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.
~ Francis Bacon

You don't have to burn books to destroy a culture.
Just get people to stop reading them.
~ Ray Bradbury ~

Check Out My New Blog: HorsesInTheCity.blogspot.com

2009-01-15T17:08:00.002-06:00

My new blog is all about my little life as a carriage
Do check it out, if you would be so kind!
Most Sincerely,
Your Ever-Lovin Blogger,
Miss Karin

I will Blog Again!!!

2009-01-09T13:35:00.004-06:00

I have been so delinquent in my blogging! I have a new blog as well as this one (HorsesInTheCity.blogspot.com) and I haven't posted on either one lately as I have had a level of business occurring the likes of which are almost extra-terrestrial. Of course, hardly anyone ever posts a comment on my blog (Thank you, Mark), so I haven't a clue as to whether or not anyone is reading this with any interest or not. I like to think people are, and with a lot of interest. Anyway, I havee no time now as I have a ton of new shelves and need to deal with them (gladly!) I had a man call me a couple of days ago (Thank you so much, by the way, whoever you were!) and rather covertly alert me to the fact that if I did, in fact, want some shelves for my bookstore, which I had said as much on Craigslist, that there were some at such and such intersection. He was right and further due to Craiglist, I aquired yet another set of shelves so I am having a lot of work going on installing them!! Come and check them out!!
Sincerely Yours,
Whoever you are,
Karin

Happy Holidays!!

2008-12-27T15:35:00.005-06:00

Happy Holidays includes them all:
Merry Christmas,
Merry Couple of Days after Christmas and
Happy New Year!

Hope everyone is well and cool, in the 72 degree December day we're having. Here's one: Hope you don't get heat stroke this Christmas!

Updates:
*Tons of books at the store, almost all for sale.
*Lots of rare books for your viewing pleasure
*Putting new books out on the shelves on a regular basis.
Do come by and say hi!
I thought this was awesome:

Confession
Last night my little boy confessed to me:
Some childish wrong;
And kneeling at my knee
He prayed with tears-
"Dear God, make me a man
Like Daddy- wise and strong,
I know you can."
Then while he slept
I knelt beside his bed,
Confessed my sins,
And prayed with low-bowed head.
"Oh God, make me a child
Like my child here-
Pure, guileless,
Trusting Thee with Faith sincere."
-Andrew Gillies

ps. I had one year of sobriety yesterday!

The English Major Bookstore is Six Months Old!!!

2008-12-15T12:47:00.006-06:00

The English Major Bookstore is
Six Months Old
Today!!!!!!

Keep up the fire's of thought,
and all will go well... You fail in your thoughts or
you prevail in your thoughts alone.
-Henry David Thoreau

There never shall be one lost good.
All we have willed or hoped or dreamed
of good
shall exist.
-Robert Browning

Wow, I mean, what can you say on top of that?

Other than to say, we still have books for sale at the store - if you haven't made it in yet, you can do so six days a week, except today (Monday) , when I am closed and actually have some time to blog. Lots of new arrivals, lots of stuff I took in in trade over the past few months and finally have shelf space to put stuff on. By the way, shameless plug here, but I am low on shelving, as those of you who have been in the store can tell. I need bookcases like nobody's business and search for sturdy, gently-used units on a daily basis. I actually recently acquired a handmade, Naugahyde-paneled Bookcase, but still need a whole aisle full of them. If you see any or know of any, please let me know! Thanks in advance.

Oh, kind of big news, I am starting a new service at the store and that is an enhanced search for books you all are looking for. If you have listed your name or email with me and given me a title of a book you are looking for, I will be getting in contact with you over the next couple of weeks (I know, too late for Christmas, sorry, first-time business owner and all) about details. I will find the books you want!!

Goodbye, fellow Memphians and those from far-away places. I hope the 45 degree differences in temperature over 24 hour periods feel as much like a time-traveling experience for you as it does for me - "Oh, look, it's September again for a day, and in December! How fun!"

And by the way, please feel free to leave a comment. I would really like it if you did. A lot. Thanks!

Ranier Marie Rilke

2008-12-06T01:12:00.001-06:00

But if the archangel now, perilous, from behind the stars
took even one step down toward us: our own heart, beating
higher and higher, would beat us to death. Who are you?
-Ranier Marie Rilke
Duino Elegies, 2

Angels and Rilke

2008-11-29T12:14:00.002-06:00

Well, I hope all of you had a lovely Thanksgiving! I drove a carriage all night, but actually had a great time! So, I have a book called A Book of Angels by Sophie Burnham which had accidentally been put in the wrong section. As I was returning it to its home-away-from-home, I started flipping through it. My mom had a thing for angels some time ago, but other than knowing that, as a kid, I was followed around by my Guardian Angel, I have not giving much thought to angels in my adulthood. Lo and behold, this book is really cool! It deals with death, ghosts, all kinds of interesting things. Will I be sitting up here all day, reading, instead of working? Maybe. Just maybe. I can't say for sure.I am enjoying this book and although it is for sale for a mere three dollars ($3), give me a little time with it before you all come in to snatch it off my shelves! Of course, the book starts off with a poem by Ranier Marie Rilke, who is, to me, the very definition of what a poet is!

But if the archangel now, perilous, from behind the stars
took even one step down toward us: our own heart, beating
higher and higher, would beat us to death. Who are you?
-Ranier Marie Rilke
Duino Elegies, 2

Friday, November 28, 2008- 10% off everything in the store!!

2008-11-25T11:15:00.002-06:00

Oh yeah, you read right. The English Major will have a

"Black Friday" Sale
of 10% off Everything In The Store!!!!
Come check it out!

Only in books has mankind known perfect truth, love and beauty.
- George Bernard Shaw

Random Samplings from Random Books

2008-11-21T17:15:00.007-06:00

"...and little Dagonet mincing with his feet:
"Knight, an ye fling those rubies round my neck
In lieu of hers, I'll hold thou hast some touch
Of music, since I care not for thy pearls.
Swine? I have wallow'd, I have wash'd- the world
In flesh and shadow- I have had my day.
The dirty nurse, Experience, in her kind
Hath foul'd me- and I wallow'd, then I wash'd-
I have my day and my philosophies-
And thank the Lord I am King Arthurs's fool.
Swine, say ye? swine, goats, asses, rams and geese
Troop's round a Paynim harper once, who thrumm'd
On such a wire as musically as thou
Some such fine song- but never a king's fool."
Alfred Lord Tennyson
from Idylls of the King, p. 214
$2

"...Yet mountains and lakes as playgrounds are not enough, no matter how well supervised. A Lake District National Park can be no mere conservation area, still less any kind of static or even working museum. Not all the cash flowing in from the tourists, not the standards so well maintained by The National Trust, which owns key parts of the park, can amount to much if a genuine organic life doesn't pulse in beneath the well-cared-for skin. The region, as far as I could tell, seemed to be surviving. Alive, if precariously. Which of us can say more?"
Norman Shrapnel
Nature's Wonderlands- National Parks of the World
$12

"English majors in college show up in my writing workshops years later, after trying a career in another field, because a dream was born in them back in school when they read Dostoevsky, Thomas Mann and Virginia Wolf, and they can't get it out of their heads. So after a few years as computer programmers, they see it doesn't give them that kind of hard rain in the afternoon outside the window. They know there is something else and that it's in their own brain. I honor English majors. It's a dumb thing to major in. It leads nowhere. It's good to be dumb, it allows us to love something for no reason. That's the best kind of love."
Natalie Goldberg
Wild Mind - Living the Writer's Life, p. 140

No Room

2008-11-19T11:59:00.002-06:00

Well, I turn 29 again tomorrow. It is an amazing thing when the exact same birthday keeps coming, year after year ( after year, after year, etc.) It is freezing cold these days, I am reading about forty different books and have some bad news. Due to a total lack of space, I cannot take in books for trade anymore. I want people to know that this was not a marketing ploy, to suspend trade over Christmas, it was more like a rookie, first-time business owner mistake. I simply don't have any more room and am working on solving that problem. As for now, I am selling only. On the smallest scale, of course, I can trade - say, a couple of books (two, maybe three. Or four). Hope to see ya'll in the store soon!

Analogies (from Leaves of Gold, edited by Clyde Francis Little):

Despair is like forward children, who, when you take away their playthings, throw the rest into the fire for madness. It grows angry with itself, turns its own executioner, and revenges its misfortunes on its own head.
-Charron

Genius is the gold in the mine; talent is the miner who works to bring it out.
Lady Blessington

Like the bee, we should make our industry our amusement.
-Goldsmith

There is no negativity in the present moment.
-Eckhart Tolle, The Power of Now

Will the Ceiling Hold?

2008-11-11T16:30:00.003-06:00

"The simpler one writes, the better it will be.
In trying to dress things up, one only distorts them."
-Saint Bernadette on her deathbed, April 1879

Busy, busy, busy. Lots going on. Over 300 books came in over the past ten days! Rainy, cold day- such a good day to read and listen to raindrops and think, eh? More Later!

History, Philosophy, New Age Thought and Practice

2008-11-07T15:03:00.006-06:00

Descartes goes into a McDonald's for lunch. He tells the girl behind the counter that he wants a Big Mac. She asks,"Do you want fries with that?"
He replies,"I think not."
And disappears.

Hee Hee.

However, for the record, The English Major Bookstore has declared, as specialties, the following areas:

*History*

*Philosophy*

*New Age Thought and Practice*

I do have some exciting news! Firstly, yours truly is, or may be, in the new movie Soulmen, with Bernie Mac, which came out today. I was a hired extra who just happened to be on my horse and carriage, so, assuming I was not cut, I am the carriage driver in the movie!

Secondly, there is going to be a forthcoming book club and poetry groups created at the store. Things are still in the planning stages, but I would like to have a book club once a month as well as a poetry night/ poetry-writing group meeting each month. Anyone interested, feel free to get in touch with me at karmormem@live.com with suggestions or ideas.

Great Quote:

Read the best books first or you may not have a chance to read them at all.

-Henry David Thoreau

Hi Mike, Amy and Blank!