I have this idea that Lightbulb can be about finding inspiration (or at least entertainment) in connecting unconnected ideas. I frequently read or see something that allows me to consider a totally unrelated item in a new light. This frequent collision of context is generally the fodder for my offline conversations and I am trying to see if it can work online.

Today I have a list of 5 stories which made me think but I am not sure what the greater context they uncover is. I am looking for ideas so if you look at my list and the theme seems obvious - make a comment and share it with the Lightbulb in a Thought Balloon community.

5 things this week that made me go, hmmm…

  1. Booker T. from legendary Booker T and the MGs has a new record out called Potato Hole. The Drive-By Truckers and Neil Young guest as his back up band and it features covers of Outkast and The Drive-By Truckers. The weird thing is his name is Booker T. Jones. Jones?? Why didn’t he go by Booker J? Did the guys in the MGs know another Booker Jones and so he went by Booker T? This makes no sense to me
  2. Shakira is back. I don’t know the name of her new single but I am pretty sure it’s her and it’s new. Where the hell has she been?
  3. Queen Elizabeth appointed former PM Jean Chrétien to the Order of Merit. The award, founded in 1902 by King Edward VII, is given to “individuals of exceptional distinction in the arts, learning, sciences and other areas such as public service”. He retired six years ago – so why now?
  4. The 14 week taxi strike in Windsor ends with a deal. After 14 weeks without cabs – maybe they just don’t need ‘em?
  5. The US deficit reached $1 trillion. A trillion is a million million or a 1 followed by 12 zeroes.