Category Archives: on Life

From the Queen Mary 2 to London, pursued by Covid

“I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,” John Masefield wrote, for unknown reasons. I knew why I was going to the seas, though. My dear bride had discovered that there was a special Olivier Award-themed Cunard cruise.

Models of the actual Olivier Award appeared onstage and at special events around the Queen Mary 2.

And in one stroke my travel plans for the summer were all decided.

Continue reading From the Queen Mary 2 to London, pursued by Covid

Is It Time to Shut Down the Republican Party?

I cast my first vote — I say this now with a sort of perverse pride — for Richard Nixon, whose administration created EPA, devised a way to get government contracts to minority-owned firms, passed the Clean Air Act, ended the war in Viet Nam, and brought the PRC onto the international stage.

Continue reading Is It Time to Shut Down the Republican Party?

The lesson of the first Super Bowl. I was there. So I know.

Yeah, I know. It’s only a game. But sports have some advantages over everyday life: they’re dramatic; they’re played over a specific and limited length of time; and the results are certain. Even if they’re stupid.

Continue reading The lesson of the first Super Bowl. I was there. So I know.

I accept your nomination for President – and other fantasies

Madame Temporary Chair; distinguished Members of Congress; Governors; Mayors; other elected officials gathered here; distinguished delegates; and my fellow Americans—

You have given me the signal honor of our party’s nomination to the nation’s highest office. I accept. Continue reading I accept your nomination for President – and other fantasies