Europe's Absence

What did the crowd of young people shout to Jacques Chirac in 2004, during the first visit by a French president to Algeria since decolonization? "Visas, visas." A malicious wit might say they drove us out and now they all want to come live with us! That does not cast doubt on the legitimacy of their independence, but it does explain this disturbing truth: Europe got over the loss of its colonies much more quickly than the colonies got over their loss of Europe.

- From The Tyranny of Guilt: An Essay on Western Masochism by Pascal Bruckner

Confession

 

The Question Is Asked Again

 

A Cup of Ginger Tea

Ginger tea made with ground ginger is great for clearing the sinuses.

It's also a nice companion when you're setting priorities and analyzing issues.

I am sipping it while considering the role of literature in life.

More on that later.

[Photo by Milada Vigerova at Unsplash]

The Serious Mission

 

Buckley and Borges

 

Get Out Old Dan's Records

Click here for the details.

We need to return to those days.

[Photo by Victrola Record Players]

Hmm

 

Upcoming Substack Topics

There will be some meaty subjects, of course, but the ones that often get the greatest attention are the equivalent of flowers, the view of a large meadow, or the preparation of a good cup of coffee.

Consider the prose but also consider the poetry.

Poetry Break

Talking to yourself?

Check out Jean at Pondering.