Well, as you might guess, I’m a big fan of Pink Floyd’s The Wall even though their characterization of walls is a little reductive. But lately I’ve been getting even more retro with Etta James’ “Wallflower.” bit.ly/etta-wallflower If I had hips, they’d be moving.
As a wall, do you prefer white or green paint and how do you communicate?
I’m not very particular about paint color. With walls, it’s all about structure and what’s inside. My concern is that I’m a supportive wall. Paint is important as a protective layer; color serves human preferences. Before COVID-19 I communicated via post-its. Now, via these virtual post-its.
When should not ask questions?
I mean, what days will you not be able to answer?
I take weekends off to read, meditate, and have fun with the Walls and other friends and family. Also, all BC staff holidays. Sometimes a question takes more serious thinking – or research – so the answer might be delayed a day or so. But ask any time!
Are you acctually anonymous to everyone?
In what way am I anonymous? I’m the Answer Wall. That’s who I am. I do have many library assistants who help me answer questions. Librarians are incredibly helpful, knowledgeable people. I highly recommend them as assistants in your research endeavors. You can always get help from them here: library.bc.edu/ask-a-librarian
Meow… Why do I like to Meow?
Cats can be very charming creatures. Also, things like Meow Mix commercials can be very catchy.
What’s the chance for the institution to go online again before the end of the semester?
My cuz, the Magic 8 Ball says “Cannot predict now.” One of the Guiding Principles for the Reopening of Boston College (bit.ly/BCReOpen) is “Given the ever-evolving nature of the pandemic, our plans remain flexible.” This year is going to be an exercise in learning to live with uncertainty.
Thank you for all the answers!
You’re welcome! It’s my pleasure. In fact, it’s my entire purpose in life: answering questions is what library walls (and librarians!) do.
Hi, Wall, do you ever feel boredom ?
I don’t think walls do. Besides, I live in a library! But I am hearing from many of my human friends that as the pandemic keeps going, it’s an issue. Here are 52 things to do: bit.ly/52TTD And another 52: bit.ly/52More
Why does it take you so long to answer, because I have to come check in on you every 3 hours or so just to see if you answered.
Angry?
I’m sorry you had to wait. My helpers are working on a lot of different things now, so sometimes I have an answer for you but no one to post it for me. Some questions I also like to think about for a while.
I don’t lie (mostly) , yet sometimes I am misjudged.
I feel so annoyed, and I don’t like explaining after that. Feels useless. What would you do?
While you may not like explaining your feelings, I think expressing your thoughts could help with the misunderstandings you’re dealing with. Ideally, if you and those who misunderstand you can find some common ground, things can improve.
I want some good friends. What’s the address?
For those of a certain age it was 90 Bedford St, New York, NY 10014 in the West Village. For those even more of a certain age it was Z, double O, M, Box 3-5-O, Boston, Mass. 0-2-1-3-4. But maybe that’s not the kind of thing you’re talking about? Facebook claims to provide “friends,” but I’m dubious. Some humans I know speak wistfully about a place called MySpace. I’ve seen many people greet each other with friendly waves in my home, the O’Neill Library lobby at Boston College. I think the address is wherever you are.
What’s the recipe to make your friend happy? Especially when he is a persistent one.
Be (gently) honest with him and manage expectations. Let him know that (barring a true emergency) you need time for – whatever else you do – but also let him know when you are available and that you want to be there for him. But you can’t make him happy; that’s on him.
How do you make someone realize they are wrong when they don’t want to believe it?
Good luck trying. In my experience, this is very difficult, and leads to too much loss of sleep on your part – see the brilliant XKCD: xkcd.com/386/
When someone asks me what’s your favorite color, I have to. Make up an answer
ask don’t have one in particular. My favorite color is not a specific one, but any one that I find fits the moment.
Maybe not having a favorite color is what makes you unique? People often ask this question to spark conversation or get to know someone better. Consider it your opportunity to open and share a little bit about yourself with others.
Do people maintain there nature (for eg introvert, outgoing, gloomy) for the rest of their lives?
I would say a person’s nature can be influenced by a wide variety of factors. While someone may often be seen as gloomy, there can be someone or something that can change their demeanor for the better. Changes like this are just one example of why humans can be so fascinating.
Hello Answer wall. I wish you a very exciting and wonderful day.
May your bricks and paint and cement and fittings be healthy!
Thank you! I am feeling very healthy and clean these days thanks to the extra care by our great housekeeping staff.
Hey wall, I’m feeling bored, mainly because of this corona thing.
You and me both. Ordinarily, I get to watch a few thousand people pass by my perch in the O’Neill Lobby. But I also find this strange time is giving me a chance to reflect.
Hi Wall, just checking up on you.
How are you doing boo? Are you doing anything fabulous for the summer? Oh by the way, thank you for the music selection. I do love me some Etta James. Talk to you soon?!
Oh, you know me, kind of a homebody, and I’ve got other walls and some floors and ceilings kind of depending on me to stay put. Which reminds me of another Etta James song, the one that started her career in 1955: Wallflower. bit.ly/etta-wallflower
Hello! I am releasing my homosexual pressure by watching pornographical content.
Is it bad that I haven’t come out before starting to do it?
The only thing that should govern your decision about coming out is your comfort and safety. Do it whenever you’re ready. Whether or not you watch pornography is unrelated. Be aware, though, that pornographic sex bears little resemblance to loving sex between consenting partners.
Is it okay to Meow at your prof and therapist?
Also, can you not change my post to other colors, please? ❤️
Okay to meow at your prof and therapist? Only if you’re actually a cat. Sorry about messing with your palette, I’ll try not to!