Boston Newsletter (August 19th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Boston.

Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Boston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Woman injured by falling sign in Boston.

  • USA wins gold, Boston fans celebrate.

  • A deep-dive into the life of Robert Lowell.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all."

– Oscar Wilde

Sponsored

Get The Coverage You Need, Without Breaking the Bank.  Savvy Insurance Delivers Average Savings of $1,500/year.

Auto and home insurance premiums are rising, but you don't have to pay more. Savvy's easy-to-use platform and expert agents help you find the right coverage at the best price. Compare dozens of insurers and save up to $1,500/year!

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the historic Boston neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and significant role in African American history?

A) Beacon Hill

B) North End

C) South End

D) Charlestown

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The university in Boston located in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood and known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts is D) Emmanuel College.

News

💼Business

Woman hurt by falling sign outside Boston business and more top stories. (link)

Self-driving robots are making deliveries in the Seaport. (link)

🏒Sports

Boston sports fans celebrate as USA defeats France in Olympic gold medal game. (link)

U.S. again beats China in Olympic medals table after they tie for gold. (link)

🏦Finance

Aviation fuel startup raises $6 million, with plans to scale and hire. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 Connecticut Sun vs. Los Angeles Sparks
TD Garden, Boston, MA
Tuesday, Aug 20th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎥 King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
Monday, Aug 19th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎷 Forrest Frank w/ Josiah Queen
Roadrunner-Boston, Boston, MA
Wednesday, Aug 21st | 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

📚 Les Miserables (Touring)
Citizens Opera House, Boston, MA
Tuesday, Aug 20th | 7:30 PM | (More info)

🎨 Auschwitz. Not Long Ago. Not Far Away.
The Castle at Park Plaza, Boston, MA
Monday, Aug 19 | time varies | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “An architecturally symmetrical Boston” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Boston Historical Events

John F. Kennedy's Presidential Election (1960) - JFK, a Boston native, is elected President.

In the historic United States presidential election of 1960, John F. Kennedy, a native of Boston, Massachusetts, emerged as the Democratic candidate, marking a significant moment in American political history. The election, held on November 8, 1960, saw Kennedy narrowly defeating Republican Vice President Richard M. Nixon. Kennedy's victory made him the first Roman Catholic and the youngest person ever elected as President of the United States. Born in the 20th century, Kennedy's win symbolized a generational shift in American politics, as he brought a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the presidency.

Kennedy's presidential campaign was formally launched on January 2, 1960, as he announced his intention to seek the Democratic Party nomination for the presidency. His campaign aimed to build momentum and support through participation in multiple primaries, including New Hampshire. The election itself was one of the closest in American history, with Kennedy winning the popular vote by a slim margin of approximately 100,000 votes. Despite Nixon winning more individual states, it was Kennedy who prevailed by securing key states with many electoral votes, ultimately winning the election by a 303-219 margin in the electoral college.

The 1960 presidential election not only marked a turning point in American politics but also highlighted the significance of Kennedy's Boston roots. His victory as the first president born in the 20th century and the first Roman Catholic president was a source of pride for the people of Boston, as they celebrated the election of one of their own to the highest office in the land. Kennedy's presidency brought hope and inspiration to the nation, and his legacy continues to be remembered and honored in Boston and beyond.

Famous People From Boston

Robert Lowell – Poet

Robert Lowell: The Life of a Troubled Genius

Robert Lowell, a renowned American poet, was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in March 1917. His family, with a prominent lineage tracing back to the Mayflower, was one of Boston's oldest families, greatly influencing Lowell's poetry.

Lowell's Early Life and Family Heritage

Lowell grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, as part of a family with a distinguished literary heritage. His parents were Robert Traill Spence Lowell III and Charlotte Winslow. His family's lineage, tracing back to the Mayflower, greatly influenced his poetry and perspective on life.

Education and Literary Influences

Lowell attended Harvard College for two years, where he was exposed to influential literary figures and poets. His time at Harvard and exposure to the literary world shaped his poetic style and themes, setting the foundation for his future literary endeavors.

Poetic Career and Achievements

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Robert Lowell is best known for his volume "Life Studies" (1959), which marked a significant milestone in his career. His true greatness as an American poet lies in the astonishing variety of his work, reflecting his versatility and depth as a literary figure.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs

Lowell's life was marked by personal struggles, including his battle with mental illness and turbulent relationships. Despite these challenges, he continued to produce profound and influential poetry, leaving a lasting impact on the literary world.

Connection to Boston and Literary Legacy

Lowell's connection to Boston, his hometown, played a pivotal role in shaping his identity as a poet. The city's rich literary history and cultural influence provided a backdrop for his artistic expression and contributed to his legacy as a literary icon.

Legacy and Influence

Robert Lowell's legacy extends beyond his literary achievements. He is remembered for his profound impact on American poetry, his ability to capture the complexities of human experience, and his enduring influence on future generations of poets and writers.

Key Achievements of Robert Lowell:

  • Pulitzer Prize-winning poet known for the volume "Life Studies" (1959).

  • Influential literary figure with a distinguished family heritage.

  • Enduring legacy as a troubled genius, capturing the complexities of human experience.

Robert Lowell's life and work reflect a journey of artistic triumphs, personal struggles, and enduring literary influence. His legacy as a troubled genius continues to inspire and resonate with readers and poets around the world.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Poll

What did you think of today's newsletter?

We are always looking for feedback. Give us your honest thoughts.

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.