On the long-running and iconic sitcom “Seinfeld,” quirky central character Cosmos Kramer — known for his off-the-wall thinking — conceived, published and marketed “The Coffee Table Book of Coffee Tables.” In a bizarre twist of life imitating art, imitating life, the fictional book by the fictional character on the “show about nothing” is rated 4.76 stars out of 5 on GoodReads.com. It is depressing to see the many classic works that are esteemed by the internet lower. Still, the plucky Kramer encouraged the then-growing trend of self-publishing. Today, the overwhelming number of tomes are delivered directly to the public.
While there may be much o discuss on the value of the vetting process of a literary agent and established publishing house, assuredly it would not have allowed for the countless dark-horse books that have found their way into our homes and onto library shelves. For many, the late-, mid-life autobiography has become a substitute for the sportscar in marking “I was here and matter” to the world. For others, it has become a way to share a passion for photography, or horseshoes, or medieval bridge construction, with the handful of others on the planet who share the proclivity.
Among the many random gems darting through your trusty columnist’s fecund mind would be a book version of the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein song, “My Favorite Things.” What are those things that bring great peace, even joy, only at seeing them? What are those things, the simple pleasures, that can take us away from strife and concern, even with a concentrated thought of them? Pages might be filled with a sleeping baby, early sunrise, steaming coffee, smiling child, fuel gauge on full, graduation cap, wedding ring, puppies playing, bat connecting with the ball, or calendar crossed off for vacation. What are yours?
