You know, I could have sworn someone asked him about blogging when I saw him at the Texas Book Festival and he didn’t seem to be averse to the idea. Or maybe I just wanted to think that

J.D., lol, it is unusual for me that I do not rush out the next day and spend a bookstore gift card. An Incomplete Education sounds intriguing. And didn’t Emerson do a nice job on Whitman? I agree with you of course, that Emerson is perhaps more completely American.

Litlove, oh yes, I was wondering how I could get Emerson to write me a letter like that! What would it take to clone him, I wonder? And I thought you had read everything Barnes had ever written? I am excited that I might read one of his before you do!

Jem, I have Consolations of Philosophy but have not read it yet. I read his book on Proust and the one on travel, both are excellent. I even bought a copy of the travel one as a going away present for a coworker a few years ago.

jenclair, life can’t be so bad when there are so many good things to read

Dark Orpheus, when I went and heard Dirda talk I went with a chip on my shoulder wanting to not like him. But he kept making me laugh and it is hard to not like someone who makes you laugh! That’s funny about your junior staff’s Botton dilemma. And yes, my sister loves me. I am very lucky.

Dorothy, thanks! I love books about books, it somehow doubles the pleasure.

Teresa, I do believe your mention of it was really what clenched it for me getting it. So thanks, I think

David, it is hard to go wrong with a Litlove recommendation isn’t it? I am baffled myself why I haven’t spent the gift card yet. Ii think I am getting some weird pleasure in extending the gratification for as long as possible.