Ravi Shankar "Thomas Jefferson in Kathmandu"

The transcript is a poetic reflection on Thomas Jefferson, democracy, and personal experiences in Kathmandu. It explores the historical and cultural context of Jefferson's legacy, the poetic form of Terza Rima, and the author's personal journey and reflections on democracy and capitalism. The poem weaves together imagery from Nepal and the United States, questioning the successes and failures of the American experiment.

What prompted the speaker to reconsider the Electoral College?

• A conversation with a friend

• A personal experience

• A historical event

• A recent election

What poetic form is used in 'Thomas Jefferson in Kathmandu'?

• Haiku

• Free Verse

• Sonnet

• Terza Rima

Where did the speaker first develop an interest in writing?

• At the University of Virginia

• In Nepal

• During a trip to Paris

• In high school

What does the speaker compare to the unseen shape of a crater?

• The Annapurna mountains

• The Electoral College

• Their own unknowing

• A historical event

What cultural elements does the speaker find more appealing than modern trends?

• Classical music and fine dining

• Newari dancers and dosas

• Twerking and haute cuisine

• Jazz music and sushi

What does the Nepalese proverb mentioned in the poem suggest?

• The importance of power

• The insignificance of material wealth

• The beauty of nature

• The value of gold

According to the speaker, what should be the epilogue to the Book of Wisdom?

• Wealth

• Compassion

• Knowledge

• Power