University of Virginia Library

Does Tradition Imply Chauvinism?

I wish to reply to Mr. Tuck
F. Axierod's comments
concerning the title of the
University's yearbook, Corks
and Curls. As I am both a
female student and a member
of the managing board of the
Corks and Curls. I was
personally offended by Mr.
Axlerod's letter.

The Corks and Curls, dating
back to the previous century,
remains one of the most viable
links with the "Old
University." Yet, even when
this book was established in
1887, the title itself was in
keeping with the traditions of
what was considered the Old
"U" at that time. Usage of the
word "curl" meant merely to
make an A on a quiz, while
"cork" meant to fail it. Just as
our generation speaks of
"aceing" or "flagging" an
exam, so did the students of
the 1800's speak of "corking
and curling."

At a time when, because of
its increasing size, this
University is losing many of its
customs, the members of the
yearbook staff have sought to
preserve this tradition.

Does tradition imply
chauvinism?