librivox.org is a fantastic resource for learning and entertainment for the more intellectually inclined. They publish public domain readings from famous texts in history. A true example of "the Internet" at its best. The readings are generally high quality and the text selection is vast. While listening to some texts, I became inspired to record piano music to accompany the readings. The first song I recorded was "Secret of Dreams" and it is still probably my favorite, although I really like "Lament of King Solomon" also. It is funny to hear Nietzsche talking the blues, when his text is complaining about the trials of a philosopher in exactly the same spirit that blues singers complain about their ailments and failed love affairs. I can imagine Nietzsche himself at an open mic intoning his troubles in an unconscious monotone, while disinterested bar patrons wait for their turn at the mic. Both "Lieu-Tzu's Dream" and "Secret of Dreams" deal with out-of-body exeriences which has been of interest to me lately. I had a verifyable "time distortion" experience as have friends of mine, and the physics of the phenomenon are an intriguing mystery. It is perhaps not as uncommon as we might think. I love the sober philosophy of Epicititus and the opening song illustrates a good overview of his ideas. Would that we could all be as rational and self controlled as that loveable old Stoic. And finally, Omar's Boogie attempts to highlight the exuberance and joy of the ideas in "The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyahm." Life is indeed short and we had best enjoy our brief sojourn on this Earth while we can. Even the meanest and most difficult of lives is itself a miracle and a blessing. The piano was recorded in my livingroom and mixed on my computer. Although I would like a more professional production, this will have to suffice. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed creating it.