Beginning, middle, end

One of my favorite things about the sci-fi show "Bablyon 5" was its emphasis on the present moment in the context of past, present, and future. So now, I guess I start with what was the future: I passed my *#$*@&$ comp exam.

I've been through a few heavy exams in my life, and this was no exception. 48 hours. All the notes you could want (but don't have time to use). Three lengthy essay questions.

Ouch.

Yes, I've passed, with the usual warning about the need to gain depth over breadth. Of course, this is a bit confusing for the grad students in the department. They tell us from the outset that it takes a long time to learn the material, then proceed to flip out because there are way too many students who are here past "normative time" to degree. I know I have a long road ahead of me, including a second "field paper" option in lieu of an exam. But at least the worst part is over.

I'm not looking forward to more classes, but it is quite true there is so much left to learn. I just have to remind myself we don't learn everything in grad school, as much as the purist professors imply we should.