Introduction

According to Webster’s online dictionary the definition of the word “scratch” includes the following:

•  to rub and tear or mark the surface of with something sharp or jagged
• to scrape or rub lightly (as to relieve itching) b : to act on (a desire) —used with itch <scratch the itch to travel>
• scrape together : collect with difficulty or by effort <scratch out a living>
• to make a thin grating sound b : to produce a rhythmic scratching sound by moving a phonograph record back and forth under a phonograph needle

All of the above explanations, in differing degrees, reflect the title that I have chosen for this project.  I will, in essence, scratch at the surface of many topics while reserving the right to, at times, tear more deeply, scrape more sharply and so collect with much more difficulty and effort upon certain areas that will leave a much wider mark. I may even produce a full sound, from time to time, and actually play the record out without simply dragging the needle back and forth to create the above mentioned “thin grating” noise.

For the most part, however, I will justify my “scratch” with the admission that I am one of those fellows with a lot of eclectic interests and otherwise useless information that does not fit into everyday encounters or conversations.  I expect that any followers of this journal will reflect a small percentage of individuals who are not exactly avant garde while, at the same time, not exactly mainstream either.  This record then is for misfits like us: Inquisitive, harmless and, I suppose, a little bit boring as well.