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Quarantining over these past three months has made me appreciate even more those elements of everyday life that give me comfort and joy at home. Among them, listening to music ranks high.

Over this tumultuous period, I am forcing myself to disconnect every once in a while — turn off my device, close my eyes, breathe deeply. This springs from my simple belief that in crazy times we must stay sane. Summer certainly helps. The flowers, the sun, that Vitamin D. A jump in the water, if you’re lucky enough to be near water.

There’s little question that director John Ford and actor John Wayne forged one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in the history of movies.

Back in 1988, The Film Society of Lincoln Center held a gala tribute for Yves Montand, one of France’s biggest movie stars, whose own story would rival any of his films for interest and color.

It’s striking just how alike they were: both petite women with big personalities and talent who achieved overnight success in iconic movies at age 19; both immensely driven professionals who, in the face of personal challenges and misfortune, channeled their prodigious energies into their work.

Marvin Neil Simon was born on Independence Day, 1927 in the Bronx. His father Irving was a garment salesman who struggled to make a living during the Depression. He also had a volcanic marriage to wife Mamie; young Neil would always remember putting his pillow over his ears during their many screaming matches.