I realized something that disturbed me a bit yesterday.

It was in my history class. This particular class focuses on the "Grand Tour" of Europe as was undertaken by British aristocrats and gentry in the 18th Century.

I'm finding the class totally fascinating, and I'm loving reading these reports of these tourists written so long ago.

But, while taking part in the discussions I'm noticing two very big things. For one, my lack of knowledge of Europe in that era is staggering. Anyone who's been near me in an American history class knows I come up with answers very quickly... but I've realized that I haven't really taken any "lower-division" history classes on Europe. It makes me wonder if I'm in over my head because of references I'll miss.

Secondly, I don't seem to be as perceptive as I used to be. I'm enjoying the reading, but I'm not picking up on so many things that other students are. Again, this could be because I lack a frame of reference, but nevertheless it is bothering me.

I haven't been paying much attention when I'm out, but I'm wondering if my current inability to read "between the lines" is affecting my game lately. I suppose I'll have to pay attention to that when I go out this week.

It feels like I am reading so much more now than ever before... but I think that is a true statement. A large part of why my recreational reading goal isn't being met is because I'm reading so much for school.

After all, being a history major is all about the written record of what happened.

Is it possible I'm reading too much, and that is affecting what I'm retaining, analyzing, perceiving?

Am I concentrating too much on NOT over-analyzing that I'm beginning to miss details?

And now... am I over-analyzing this?

Yeah, probably. We shall see.

What i'm listening to:

Watching the Wheels
John Lennon
Double Fantasy