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Beethoven’s Triumph, Roman Colanders, and Magpie Mysteries
Discover a symphony’s rocky debut, the Roman tool in your kitchen, and why magpies might just outthink us all.
Max Whitt
November 24, 2024
Hello, friends! It’s Max Whitt, your trusty purveyor of peculiar knowledge and delightful oddities. Today, we’ll be exploring a musical misunderstanding, a Roman invention you might owe your dinner to, and a bizarre quirk about bird behavior that will have you scratching your head. Let’s dive into the fascinating and the fun.
When Beethoven Stopped the Party
In 1824, Beethoven premiered his Symphony No. 9 to thunderous applause—though he couldn’t hear it. Interestingly, one of the symphony’s most famous moments, the “Ode to Joy,” was initially dismissed as “unplayable” by contemporary musicians. Little did they know it would become an anthem of unity, performed worldwide from Olympic ceremonies to flash mobs. Beethoven: deaf, genius, and probably wondering why everyone doubted him.
The Roman Invention That Keeps You Full
The Romans didn’t invent pasta, but they did create the colander. This perforated bowl was used for draining boiled vegetables and grains. While it may seem mundane, the design has remained almost unchanged for 2,000 years—a testament to its brilliance. So, next time you make spaghetti, give a nod to the Romans who made sure it wasn’t swimming in water.
Why Magpies Are Smarter Than You Think
Magpies, often mistaken for common thieves, are actually among the most intelligent birds. Studies show they recognize themselves in mirrors—a feat matched by only a handful of species. What’s more, magpies have been observed holding “funerals” for deceased companions, gathering in silence around fallen flock members. Thieves or philosophers? You decide.
And there you have it: a symphony that defied skeptics, a Roman innovation that’s still in your kitchen, and a bird with a brain (and perhaps a soul). Until next time, keep curious, keep sharp, and never underestimate a magpie.
— Max Whitt
