How do you read? (And Yellowstone is a supervolcano)
theblackbox: Hi, I was on the Bryson train....there are a good many techniques to enhance memory, most usually deal with some form of visual imagery. I'm pretty sure this hinges on the idea that a very large proportion of the brain is given over to visual processing, so one would assume that capturing a visual image of an idea would better help one to recall that idea many years in the future. And the image of the gaping maw of a spewing super-volcano, is pretty hard hitting. That's probably why it eclipsed the details and left you with the "bigger picture" as you so unconsciously put it ;)for instance, do you remember what Coprolites are?
probably not, and probably for a good reason, they are Fosillised Dino turds.... not a worthwhile image for association, methinks;)but they are also esoteric, so I wouldn't get caught up about not remembering what you consciously don't attend to. Association is a powerful tool, and you would probably surprise yourself if you could see everything you _can_ recall about things that hold your attention well.