And that "something" can be encapsulated in one word: hallucinogens.

Just look at their posters.

A cappella advertisements are big, glossy, and multi-colored, displaying everything from a crocodile crawling on a piano to millions of little pumpkins. In Currier, where I live now, the posters attack me as soon as I step into any elevator. (It's kind of fitting, since in the real world, I would expect to hear a cappella tunes in an elevator.)

Posters on the ground between Widener and Lamont. Posters on Science Center bulletin boards. Posters on the trees lining the walk between the Quad and the Yard. Posters hanging from Holworthy. Posters on every kiosk recognized by the University.

They've even begun to invade my subconscious. Last night, I dreamed I was being serenaded by a group of insane and drooling tuxedo-clad Kroks waving around florescent banners.

I woke up in a cold sweat.

ALTHOUGH there are other singing groups on campus, the a cappella groups reap the most publicity and support. They certainly have the most money; they love to brag about their spring trips to the Caribbean or "around the world." Why do they have to come back?

And why do they seem to get Sanders Theater for their concerts at the drop of a hat? They might have the ability to fill the theater, but so might a student musical or play if given the chance.

It was in a period of vulnerability several weeks ago when I gave a cappella music its last chance. As I sat in Sanders Theater, wringing my hands and looking all around me, I realized that I had come to that moment of self-hatred. They had annoyed me, driven me to drink, and, finally, dragged me into their concert.

What had I become?

But it was at that lowest moment that I recognized a solution to the problem. For free speech reasons, a cappella music must have a place at Harvard. So why can't that place be the Mather House television room?

It's spacious enough to accommodate all a cappella groupies. Its design provides the quality acoustics that the music deserves.

And it's far enough away to keep them out of my mind.