What does HBO’s current mini-series, John Adams, have to do with contemporary lighting? Well…both are illuminating, appeal to bright people and kindle a desire for, and an appreciation of, self-expression. And then there’s that Father of Electricity thing.

So I started wondering what it would be like if John Adams and Ben Franklin were alive today and debating, say, pendant lamps.

JA: Now, Ben, why on Earth would you want to suspend your light source from the ceiling, when to put a lamp on the floor         or on a table is perfectly acceptable?

BF: I find diffused light at the end of a rope or chain simply magical, don’t you?

JA: Actually, when given a choice I always prefer the direct approach.

BF: There are pendants designed as “task” lighting—over a dining table, bar, kitchen sink or pass-through. And then there          are those that emit more ambience—like those in a living room or master suite. Either way, pendants float above the            fray—and free up counter space.

JA: If you don’t mind, Ben, I prefer to define “free” as in free-standing or portable.

BF: Even if you had to compromise style? A minimalist sensibility? A mid-century modern feel?

JA: I just want to sit in my favorite chair next to Abigail and read a good book, or hole up with my laptop to write my                   memoirs.

BF: Okay , but you don’t know what you’re missing.

JA: The lighting you prefer?

BF: No, I was thinking more of…lightening up.