Ok. First, let me explain "deep factor".
"Deep factor" is a term coined by two of my sophomore English students. The girls were in the midst of a small group discussion of poetry when I overheard one say, "I do not have my 'deep factor' today." Curious, I asked her to explain what she meant.
"Ms. K, we decided that to interpret poetry you've got to have a 'deep factor.' On days when you've got a high 'deep factor' you can interpret anything, but on low 'deep factor' days you can't figure anything out. Today, I'm all outta 'deep factor.'
This evening I can sympathise.
I've had a nasty head cold for several days and it has sucked me dry of "deep factor." Lots of fascinating diary topics have been bobbing around in my head, but I don't have the "deep factor" to fully explore them (nor, do I seem to have the patience to hold off on the topics.)
Here's one thing I've been pondering:
Last weekend, I saw two films--IN THE THEATER! Two-movie weekends used to be a regular feature of my life. In fact, I've been known to see two in one day. But, once we had kids, that pretty much put the kabosh on my movie-going habit. I went from being the girl who saw EVERYTHING to the woman who sees NOTHING.
So, to walk into two separate movie theaters on successive days and see two separate films (with no children in tow!) was a nice little visit to my former self. (this whole concept of "visiting" a "former self" interests me, but I don't have the deep factor to get into it right now.)
The films were both INTENSE movie-going experiences, for different reasons.
Saturday CSK and I saw Children of Men. Wow! Nothing like watching the total degeneration of human society to get your blood pressure up. It also makes you REALLY appreciate your children.
Sunday a friend and I saw Freedom Writers. I usually don't like teacher movies. Since I've been a teacher for 15 years, I am very familiar with all sorts of teachers, schools and students, and the teachers, schools, and students I see on screen rarely match up with my own experiences. However, Freedom Writers rang true, had me crying for over an hour, and actually gave me renewed energy for my own teaching.
So, both films were extremely thought-provoking and energizing, but right now I just don't have the deep factor I need to elaborate on those thoughts.
Maybe you all can help?