Why Coldax?

We asked people who attended the Coldax readings to explain what lay behnd the name. Here are some of the responses. The right answer, and the winning entry, are at the bottom.

There were a number of variations on two themes, both of them captured in this response:

1. Because readings are “cold acts.” Cold readings.
2. Also, a cold axe cuts through the bullshit, but sometimes it stings. (P. McManus)

Acrostics were popular. We liked this one in particular:

*C*anada’s

*O*bsolete

*L*iterary

*D*ynasty

*A*bsolutely

*X*pired
(D. Perlmutter)

And then there were these:

It’s named after a cement called the same name. The purpose of this cement is to act as an abrasive — and is therefore similar in purpose to a political play — to abrade off civilized veneers and expose the rawness of life. (P. Mayeda)

It is a little known fact that COLDAX is a geological layer just below the surface of the Canadian Shield. It is hardscrabble, difficult to deal with. You must drill your way through it for ore or make your piece [sic] with it when growing crops. COLDAX gives no quarter. (P. Thompson)

Politics and Terrorism have turned the world cold on its axis. (L. Griffin)

Most readings are about the connection between the cold war and post-9/11 events. (D. Carbonneau)

The axe always feels “cold” when it falls. (C. Breorley)

The theatre is so cold prior to the beginning of the show! (K. Barry)

And what does it really mean? It’s derived from Stanley Kubrick’s great anti-war film, Paths of Glory, in which Kirk Douglas plays a platoon leader who defends his men against a trumped-up charge of cowardice in the line of duty. The court martial scene in which Douglas lays into the court contains one of the most remarkable speeches ever captured on film. And the name of this character? Colonel Dax — or, as a sign on his office door has it: Col. Dax. ... Okay, okay, it’s a little obscure. But, hey, we got you thinking, didn’t we?

We certainly got Aron Tager thinking. He receives a 5-play subscription package to the 05/06 Tarragon season for this winning entry:

The axe that comes down to slice the warm or hot divinity is ice — the words that sought the medium of man or woman’s voice to give it air — were spliced or cursed by minds that live but barely — bloodless — taint nice.

Thanks to all who took part.

• 31 05 2005 - 09:02