By Juan C. Ayllon WOODSTOCK, IL -- For many, the 1993 comedy, Groundhog Day, is a perfect metaphor for the year 2020, and Woodstock Square, where much of the film was shot, will be forever linked with the hit that starred actors Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. Earlier today after dropping off a Jimmy John's tuna sub to my wife, Belle (who was at work), I traveled the country roads out to Woodstock, IL. I had spent a lot of time there with a childhood friend, and having just submitted an audio equipment review and being on holiday with no one to share the afternoon, it seemed like an opportune time to get out and see this old haunt. For those unfamiliar with the movie, in it, Murray plays a jaded and narcissistic news anchor who is covering the quaint town of Punxsutawney's annual Ground Hog Day festivities. To his horror and angst, he soon finds himself reliving the same day over and over again. For many, the year 2020 has been like that -- one long, terribly frustrating year where the frustrations and horrors never seem to end. With our inability to engage in normal social activities, a lot of the fun interactive activities we have come to take for granted have been all but suspended. Yet, there are some good things to celebrate in the midst of the drudgery -- new grandchildren, new skillsets developed in adapting to remote working, and finding fresh surprises like I did today in discovering a delightful little Mexican restaurant off the square in downtown Woodstock. The only patron in the restaurant, I had an unobstructed view of the ornate buildings and lovely town square. And, tonight, Belle and I are making lobster for two in celebration of the New Year.
In Groundhog Day, eventually, Murray's character decides to make the best of his situation, learns how to play the piano, overcomes his morose demeanor, becomes sociable, and cultivates a love interest in a colleague (McDowell). In that sense, art mimics reality; even though the year's ending tonight with the promise of effective vaccinations being administered for all interested parties, even after treatment, people will be asked to continue wearing masks, we're not out of the woods just yet; however, we can take the opportunities that arise, take joy in them, and look forward to brighter days ahead.
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Juan C. AyllonA writer, artist, educator and owner of Prairie Audio Man Cave, he lives with his wife, Isabel (AKA Belle), and their Goldendoodle, Liam, enjoys listening to high fidelity music and all things hi-fi at their home in the greater Chicagoland area.. Archives
May 2024
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