Did you know that January is named for the Roman god Janus?
Two thousand years ago Julius Caesar established the modern calendar and chose the first month of the year to be "the Month of Janus." The reason for this is because Janus, always depicted with two faces, represents transition: the end of an old year and beginning of a new one. Janus's two faces display his ability to view both the past and the future.
The last motorcycle I bought was named Janus. It was custom-built by a small company in Indiana. When my eyes went bad I gave away my two BMW motorcycles but clung to my first and last bikes (Kawasaki Vulcan and Janus Halcyon). I retained these motorcycles for sentimental reasons and hope to display them in a future private museum
You'll note from the picture below that the gas-cap on the motorcycle shows the two faces of Janus. Happy January!
Look at that grin. You look so happy posing next to your motorcycle. You make me want to buy one for myself. I did know about Janus and January, but I didn't know you had a bike called Janus. I think it's good you hold onto these, as they would look wonderful displayed in a museum or a collection some day. We cannot hold onto everything, but some things we should hang onto for sentimental reasons.
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day! Happy January and happy 2025!
Exactly. Thank you.
DeleteOh, she is such a beauty!!!! I love her colour and I love the close up of her logo. I hope to visit the museum one day!
ReplyDeleteI actually didn't know that about January/Janus but that makes total sense and is a good meaning! I love that picture of you with your beautiful bike!
Much love to you Ally!xx
Thanks, Kezzie. Love back at ya!
DeleteThose were on my short list when I got my license and bought a Rebel. Unfortunately my hip made me give up my motorcycle. :(
ReplyDeleteThat's too bad, Freeda. Most of us who have to give up riding due so because of medical issues. Nobody would simply choose to stop having fun. Happy New Year.
DeleteYour Janus Halcyon is an absolute stunner, no wonder you are keeping it for sentimental reasons!
ReplyDeleteI had no idea this is where the month's name came from. It kind of makes sense! xxx
Here I am -- spreading erudition!
DeleteThat is definitely a piece that was made for you and should be displayed as it's gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteI knew about Janus from the BBC Sherlock episode where the car lot was called Janus Cars and Holmes quips "the god with two faces".
Once you become aware of this you see numerous instances of it referenced in entertainment and literature.
DeleteI did know that January was named after Janus! That is a gorgeous bike and it deserves to shine and be admired for years to come!
ReplyDeleteJust goes to show how smart you are!
DeleteOh, I'm so glad you held on to this, it's gorgeous! And I did know about Janus/January! https://makeupmuseum.org/curators-corner-happy-almost-2012/
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading, Hillary.
DeleteCongrats to your dad! Like him, I re-acquired my first bike after parting with it 20 years ago. It went through several owners since then, all of whom I knew so I knew where to find it.
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