(no subject)

In my search for more materials for learning Hindi, I came across the absolutely hilarious "Learn Hindi from Bollywood" podcasts. While it is not really useful for learning the language it is a riot to listen to not just because of the selections the author makes from films, but also because it comes replete with his hysterical commentary. I especially loved the one on rejection with the recounting of the rejections that a tender young author must go through. BRILLIANT.

I also bought a learn Hindi book today but I am sure it will not be nearly so much fun. (And some Dresden novels. I thought about getting some more of Kage Baker's Company novels, but although I am enjoying The Garden of Iden I think I could get tired of the main characters quite quickly. It's hard to really want to hear about people who are so superior to mortal people and so conscious of their superiority; they're just a bit too smug. But the novel is still really interesting.

(no subject)

A bunch of people on my flist seem to be having bad times lately; in an effort to cheer you up I bring you a link to Learn Hindi from Bollywood movies. Even if you are not interested in Bollywood or Hindi it is very funny. I am up to podcast 5 and already I have learned how to deal with rejection (especially if it involves being commanded to put my head on an editor's feet),* how to nurse resentments for years, curse my employees' blood, and how to know when my boss trusts me (it's when he tells everyone not to shoot the doorman: you'll be happy to do that).

I haven't learned much Hindi (well, Hindi that I could use) but it is vastly entertaining.

ETA: I am now learning how to deal with getting visas when you come from one of the many European countries that has wronged India and how to tell the girl you want to pick up that my blood is not made up of lemon soda, thus reassuring her that I am indeed human and filled with manly vigour.

* I also learned the valuable fact in this one that every writer is entitled to 5 seconds of self-respect in their lives.