Friday's Word

Now that the manuscript for Destiny's Way, book 3 of the Destiny's Series is in the capable hands of Linda Ingmanson, editor extraordinaire, I can return to the world of the living and resume a favorite activity, Friday's word, and important quotes.  I couldn't think of a more appropriate word to restart my end-of-the-week tradition than...you guessed it:

Muse

noun: A source of inspiration

verb intr.: To be absorbed in thought.

verb tr.:    To think or say something thoughtfully

noun 2:    A state of deep thought

Etymology: 

In Greek Mythology the Muses were nine minor goddesses, daughters of rascally Zeus and Mnemosyne—the most popular version—who presided over the arts and studies, remembered all knowledge, and entertained the gods in Olympus. In our modern culture, we're familiar with Kleio, Terpsikhore, Kalliope, and most notably Erato, goddess of erotic poetry, as the rise in Erotica literature indicates. Here is an interesting note, museum, is the Latin term for a shrine dedicated to the Muses. 

Mousai means Muses in Greek. The linked page contains a plethora of information about the goddesses, several myths, and legends regarding their origins, their following, and centers of worship throughout the ancient world. In addition, a Muse can be a personal creative spirit. Mine, the one I honor today, lives here. I try to make her chamber as pretty and comfortable as possible. <g>   

The last definition comes from the French language muser (to meditate, to idle) earliest use dates to 1500 or thereabouts.  

Important quotes:

History may be read as the story of the magnificent rearguard action fought during several thousand years by dogma against curiosity. ~ Robert Lynd, writer (20 Apr 1879-1949)

There is a beauty in discovery. There is mathematics in music, a kinship of science and poetry in the description of nature, and exquisite form in a molecule. Attempts to place different disciplines in different camps are revealed as artificial in the face of the unity of knowledge. All literate men are sustained by the philosopher, the historian, the political analyst, the economist, the scientist, the poet, the artisan, and the musician. ~ Glenn T. Seaborg, scientist, Nobel laureate (19 Apr 1912-1999)

Neither great poverty nor great riches will hear reason. ~ Henry Fielding, author (21 Apr 1707-1754)