So I was glad to read that even 400 years ago, Elizabethans were overdoing things when it came to collecting the wisdom of the ages too. Apparently Common Place books , a repository for all the things you mean to get around to, memorize, read and pass onto your friends were the latest thing. Gee.... this sure reminds me of something I do on my computer. Now gee, what could it be?
Isn't old Will the best playwright ever? Quick before you forget, go ahead and write down those quips about asses and wise fathers, that made you laugh so hard you almost bust your stay laces. What better place then your new Common Place book to keep them from getting lost.
Did you finally score the world's best receipt for grouse pastry puffs? Into the Common Place book it goes.
Managed to sneak in a detailed description of the perfect knot garden when your hosts weren't looking? Slip that drawing in your Common Place book.
Found a wonderful new method for poisoning rats? Tuck it in.
The idea, of course, is that you'll know right where to go when you next tie on your pastry apron or slip on your rat-taming, gardening gloves. Oh you bet.
Now we know why somebody invented the search key.
A fun blog entry with great detailed info about common place books (and other fun reads as well).
