In the lexicon of music, there is a word for the section of a symphony where the instruments quicken their pace in the drive to the ultimate destination. It’s called a coda.

Often the coda will quote or elaborate on earlier themes and elements in the work, as if to remind us of the journey we have travelled. Sound familiar?

It’s the feeling we get as the year draws to a close, and we move towards the great unwinding of the holiday season.

But still, we busy ourselves with the winding and the rewinding, wrapping things up, reflecting, and looking ahead.

In the rush of the coda, we bring you this closing edition of The Comet for 2023, offering a selection of high-tech gadgets for your next festive braai, a vignette of a special moment on the Bok Homecoming Tour, some wise and homely advice on managing your money, and more.

Enjoy the read, enjoy the holidays, travel safely, and let’s hope, above all, that the season gives us at least a glimmer of the gift we all need and long for. Peace on earth.