The perils of REF 'irradiation'

Why not start with a poem by Constantinos Cavafis - translated by his brother in English - which I posted before as comfort to the individual's morale when his or her "contribution is not deemed worthy of inclusion". I hope readers will forgive the repeat - after all, in 1996 a photocopy would have shown acceptable impact :) Addition Whether I am happy or unhappy, it is not my care to examine. But of this have I the joy to be aware that in their immense addition — their detestable addition with the myriad rows of figures, I am not recorded there of the many units one. Of me there is no recognition in their numeration. And this joy suffices my ambition. ********************** Many will want the carols back - the genuine participation for the common good - a communication on how to become a better society, getting to know our world and how to change it… ¡in the direction of our choice!

I am most struck by the post-REF turn in these articles (see also Bigsby). In most institutions, the REF cycle is an endless hamster wheel, whereby after the REF is before the REF