The word of the day1 for February 14, 2007 is “valentine”— noun 1 : a sweetheart chosen or complimented on Valentine's Day. 2 a : a gift or greeting sent or given especially to a sweetheart on Valentine's Day; especially : a greeting card sent on this day b : something (as a movie or piece of writing) expressing uncritical praise or affection : TRIBUTE.
The ancient Romans believed that today was the day for the birds to choose their mates. That’s probably why St. Valentine got saddled with all the hearts and flowers biz. As the Romans also thought that February was an unlucky month that lends a fatalistic strand to the proceedings.
When Lloyd asked me what I wanted for Valentine’s Day I told him a lug wrench. I hear you ladies crying, “This is not a romantic gift.” True, for Valentine’s or Mother’s Day a fellow ought not to buy his sweetie anything that has an electrical plug or that is sold in the hardware section. However, if the lady asks specifically for something like that, the fellow should get a big bow and a mushy card to go with his very practical gift.
The quote2 for today is from William Shakespeare (1564–1616), Theseus, in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, act 4, sc. 1, l. 139-40:
Good morrow, friends. Saint Valentine is past;
Begin these woodbirds but to couple now?
;^) Jan
1 The definition is from either Merriam-Webster Online, 10th Edition or TheAmerican Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition and is used by permission.
2 The quote is from either Bartleby: Great Books on Line or The Quotation Pages and is used by permission.
2 The quote is from either Bartleby: Great Books on Line or The Quotation Pages and is used by permission.
P.S.: Comments and word requests are welcome.
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