February 02, 2007

Utterly Gratuitous Historical Biographer Observation

D'you know, it was only last evening that I realized Elizabeth Longford was the mother of Antonia Fraser.

Learn something new every day.

(Yes, you see I'm finally, finally reading Longford's Wellington: The Years of the Sword. Saki for the metro, Longford for the evening.)

UPDATE: Speaking of Saki, as I make my way through his collected works for the first time, the same thought continually comes to mind - "You will, Oscar. You will."

Posted by Robert at February 2, 2007 09:47 AM | TrackBack
Comments

Saki for the Metro? Last time I tried that there was an inadvertent baring of the lips and, perhaps, a chortle. Due to the responses observed have now scaled back to crosswords when in public. Currently keep at least one Kipling or Plum open while Munro-ing so as to keep the aunt problem in perspective.

Posted by: Uncle Pinky at February 3, 2007 12:30 PM

I confess the occasional explosive hoots that escape my lips have caused some odd looks to be aimed in my direction.

I think I'm correct in interpreting such a look from a particular young lady sitting next to me this week as meaning, "He read book. Why he laugh? Snob."

Posted by: Robbo the LB at February 3, 2007 06:22 PM

I made the mistake of loaning my complete Saki to my sister and never got it back. Most of the stories were great and funny, but "The Unbearable Bassington" never lived up to its title. The talking cat was one of my favorites.

A good reason to hate the Germans, not that one needs one.

"He was a good cook, as cooks go, and as cooks go, he went." Or is that Wodehouse?

Posted by: Ralph L. at February 4, 2007 06:32 AM