’ve been thinking about the perfect fifth for a long time. First, in elementary school when I began taking piano lessons. Then as an adolescent, I was obsessed with mathematical and geometrical ratios and proportions. In undergraduate and graduate school, I studied music theory and was further introduced to philosophy and symbols.
Continuing in this vein of thought, the September issue of Olive focuses on the Perfect Fifth Wheel.
Originally developed to solve steering problems, fifth wheels were first used on horse-drawn carriages before finding their way into automobiles. They have also become a familiar literary metaphor, often describing someone who feels unnecessary or out of place in a relationship or social setting.
My ruminations begin with a brief history lesson on fifth wheels in carriages and cars, then move into its use as a metaphor in literature and relationships. The issue concludes with Friends of Judy. There you will find an essay from Brenda and a brief film — New School thesis project –by Miles Lewandowski. The cover artwork is in the style of British artist Dame Tracy Emin.
Please enjoy Issue 15 on The Perfect Fifth: Wheel in which I continue my third attempt to be perfect.