Author Archives: Scribe Doll
Odds & Ends: Commitment – Just a Couple of Thoughts
I have an issue with commitment – or, rather, the lack of it around me. That is, commitment as I define it. More often than not, we equal commitment with promise; with the ability to stick things out. … Continue reading
An Apology for the Grey Squirrel
“Tree rats”, “rats with bushy tails”, “pests’, “vermin”. First of all, what is wrong with rats? I can feel my question sending ripples of disgust among you. “Eek!”, “Yuck!” Your lips are twisted in revulsion. Rats are dirty – you … Continue reading
Words and Civilisation: English – the Fast Food Burger of the Language World
English is a democratic language. Vox populi, vox linguae. As soon as 51% of people say something in a particular way, then it becomes correct. Incorrect English usage. Now there is a minefield. Do not even venture there. “Incorrect” implies that … Continue reading
Odds & Ends: Autumn
It is one of my favourite days of the year. The day the clocks finally go back to a user-friendly time, as far as I am concerned. My reward for the annual body shock I am submitted to by … Continue reading
Odds & Ends: Rabbit Rights
New York, January 2001. ‘I am looking for ear muffs,’ I told the sales assistant at Macy’s. The girl lead me down the cluttered aisles of the department store, past the jewellery and the glove section, to a stand covered … Continue reading
Pet Hates: The Menace of Contagion
I am meeting two female friends for an after work drink at the Windsor Castle Pub. I give one the socially compulsory kiss on the cheek. I turn to the other but she takes a step back. “I have a … Continue reading
Pet Hates: Sticking Things Out
When you’re struggling with a situation, do your friends tell you to “stick it out”? Stick it out. You’ll be glad you did. How do they know that? Do they have 20/20 vision into the future? Stick … Continue reading
Words and Civilisation: Really. Really! Really?
Really is a word we really use really a lot. Really. In fact, every few sentences, really. I am not really sure why. Now, really! There is no need to get uppity about this. It’s really just a case of … Continue reading
Double Standards: Smoking
As those of you who are UK based will have heard, there has been a discussion in the media, over the past week, on whether films showing scenes of people smoking should be given a Certificate 18. On one particular … Continue reading
Odds & Ends: The Dumb Innocent and the Wise Enchantress
My grandmother brought me up on fairy tales. Every evening, as daylight faded and silhouettes grew blurred, my mind’s eye would open up to the world of magic. Talking animals would trot into our living room, princesses with stars on … Continue reading