Category Archives: Odds & Ends

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

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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

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Kisses, Handshakes and Hugs

When my Italian, Spanish, Irish and Basque friends greet or part with me, they kiss me.  That is, their lips smack into my cheek full on, like a firm cushion.  A solid, present, committed kiss.  My English friends*, for the … Continue reading

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Trust

Some thoughts on the painting Tobias and the Angel (circa 1470-80) by the Workshop of Verrocchio.  Egg tempera on poplar.  National Gallery, London. Trust me, if you will.  I am loving, I am infinite, I am immortal.  I do not … Continue reading

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Odds & Ends: Human Decency Is Not Dead

The past week has brought to light a ugly side to the nation, that makes me feel deeply uneasy.  I can only hope that History will not spin the truth into a falsely glorified image of an ideologically motivated revolt … Continue reading

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Odds & Ends: The Money Yardstick

I know this one is going to spark off controversy, so here comes the disclaimer: this is just my personal opinion, which I have formed from my own observations.  However, I would be most interested in hearing about your experiences. … Continue reading

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Odds & Ends: The Neglected Sense

On the Tube, the conductor’s announcement is so loud, the sound is fuzzy and incomprehensible.  I plug my fingers into my ears and meet the eyes of other passengers.  They are impassive; their curiosity at my reaction, unemotional.  In the … Continue reading

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Odds & Ends: An Actor’s Perception of Age

I used to be a theatrical agent.  A few of my ex-clients, I now have the pleasure and privilege of calling my friends.  Perhaps one of them will be able to solve this particular puzzle.  Or did this happen only … Continue reading

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Odds & Ends: Isn’t It Romantic?

Two days ago, the nation was swept into a pink fluffy cloud of romance.  The Government encouraged this mass adoration of somebody else’s wedding by decreeing a Bank Holiday.  The country was momentarily distracted from economic problems, Britain’s increasing involvement … Continue reading

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Odds & Ends: Pay Freely for a Service, Without Expectations

This is now a regular occurrence. I am at the supermarket, queuing to pay.  A member of staff rushes towards me.  His tone is cheerful, as though he has a special treat in store for me.  “Would you like to … Continue reading

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