Confused? Sequin writes:
Did I buck the trend by sending out two blogs in one day yesterday.? Obviously I got carried away with enthusiasm - or was it the bottle of Martini and the olives in Ed's cocktail cabinet? Anyway, sorry if I confused you. Will behave today. Honest.
Got to keep myself under control anyway - the Boss , Peter Rippon, is in charge of PM today. He's drawn up a running order - and there's a rash of TB all over it. TB, described once by Gordon Brown, if my memory is correct , as one of the world's worst communicable diseases.
Off to interview Lord Archer now - speak soon..
CQ
RSS feed
Email us
Listen to PM
oh dear, Cap'n S, you're spoiling us with all these opportunities for gags, what with "rash", "TB", and last but by no means least "Jeffrey Archer"! It's too much! punchline overload has set in.....
We promise to behave if the Big Boss is looking over our shoulders today
I think maybe Eric took the wrong fortnight off for his holidays...
sb1
sb1 but I bet it's not - again.
Sequin, why on earth would you want to interview Lord Archer. Surely he is someone who should be denied, in that once famous phrase 'the oxygen of publicity'. Along with Tony Benn. Anyone else got any suggestions for that list?
I misread your blog too, thought at first it said you wouold be interviewing TB, but didn't believe it. He's above that sort of thing these days isn't he?
I thought Sequin was interviewing Archer getting his comments/advice for/to TB to improve TB's standing.... but I guess the tie in is with the new Royal (male) baby in Japan.
Anyway, make sure the Vermouth's well chilled before mixing, I think mine was a little warm yesterday. Of course you could ways do what Churchill did, which was to pour the gin, glance at the vermouth bottle and Voila, his favourate Martini.
Blog took ages to appear compared to the entry time, so guess a lot of comments ahead of mine, so guess at SB10
Off topic - sorry.
I was just looking at the latest PM newsletter in my Gmail in-box just now and the Google sponsored ads at the right hand side are:
Blogging Redefined
English Democrats Party
Get Paid For Writing
Is there a hidden message here?
sb10?
Going by the timings, Sequin was super efficient in writing her blog entry, and then was so excited about interviewing a Lord that she forgot to post. Either that, or it takes even longer to vet Sequin's words than it does for the rest of us.
sb2, but I doubt it.
I thought Lord Arcfher was de-Lorded after his time in chokey?
I think the OoP should be removed from :
Can't think of any others.
PR in charge of PM, and I thought too much PR was in charge of TB the PM? Oh this is so confusing
CQ,
Is this the same Peter Rippon that did that dance with Morcambe and Wise? You know the one, kicking up his legs, he was. A Christmas special I think it was.
Best Wishes in your endeavors.
I love Private Eyes nickname for him. Archole somehow seems quite appropriate.
About the 'Two blogs in one day' thing that seems to have upset many regulars here; sod 'em. It's your blog, so do it your way. I reckon that two separate blog entries are correct if you're dealing with two distinct issues. An update entry in the first blog is probably better if you are responding to comments made on that entry.
The great thing about blogging is that it's personal. No-one can dictate etiquette to you about how you "must" do it.
Si.
A much more interesting interviewee would be Gordon Brown, but I bet he's not available. I suppose we shall have to put up with Nick Robinson's endless speculations.
Jeffrey Archer and TB in one day. Is this some form of vicious Radio 4 initiation?
My local paper once showed a photo of the local mayor and MP over the headline "Dim and Distant". Wonder why it just came back to me.
Martini & olives? My illusions shattered. I'd always imagined EM to be an Absinthe man. Still it kinda goes with the piccy up on the banner. Obviously still hoping to be the next Bond....
What a day to be sat in the PM studio, especially given your other role as a senior political journo. TB all over the running order. But for how much longer? There's a real feeling of decay about the Government now, that the death certificate is already written, we're just waiting for the burial to be announced. There's a distinct possibility that during your current tenure of the chair you may find yourself pronouncing the end of the Blair era.
Si.
I don’t have a problem with there being more than one entry here per day. I think that’s probably how these things work, especially given how these things work (our memories). As long as you divert a little time to preparing whatever it is you prepare...
Must go, as my Florida call has come through.
SB8
SB8, but, in the words of my friend Beverley, "not likely"
Re Anne (2). Remove the OoP from Tony Benn? Surely, as the closest living relative of Mr Benn (aka Eddie) he should be allowed to speak on any topic he likes. Seriously, why so harsh? One can go off people you know...
I see my 1.xxpm blog entry has been censored....
Surely the most deserving of people to have the OoP removed from them has to be the Git Wizard himself, David Blaine...
s b 15.
Aperitif, harsh to whom - Archer or Benn? Assuming it's Benn apart fromthe fact that he's a boring old creep who still thinks ordinary people should admire him for giving up his title ( and I would admire him so much more for that if he didn't admire himself for it so much), I dislike the way he is allowed by the meejer, who he constantly castigates, to say whatever rubbish he likes without being challenged. There are a few people in public life to whom this blanket easy ride is accorded, he is one. Dennis Healey is one. ANd Gerry Adams and his sidekick MM were two more. and no doubt you could all think of a few more. They must know where the media's bodies are buried.
Carolyn, please make sure you don't perjure yourself, whilst interviewing the noble Lord Archer.
I’d like to think that the issue of the resig-speculation will get the amount of time it’s due today - that is, rather less than yesterday, unless there has been any tangible development in the position. If the so-called TB gets struck off, I might even have something in common with him. I didn’t say that last bit.
I thought that the noble Lord Archer had voluntarily changed his title to Prisoner FF8282. Am I correct in thinking he even wrote a book about it?
Fearless Fred (17), you are truly a genuis.
SB19
Not so Chooky. (I may call you Chooky mayn't I?)
The Nob. Lord didn't actually change his name, he meant to type "Archer" it's just that his typing and spelling are of the same standard as his memory, probity and literary ability. Poor lambkin.
Alas, I cannot claim to have given the subriquet of Git Wizard to DB, that was Marcus Brigstock. However, it does sum him up nicely, doesn't it!
sb23
SB23
Oh dear Anne, how can we be friends after this?
TB? Archer? Benn, Adams, Titles and OoP? (Object-oriented Politicking?)
Ah, for the days when I thought that suggesting a new planetary body should be called Mr Potato-Head was an appropriate comment on this blog.
SB ? (Not worthy of a number)
I think Glaswegians call the tall bloke who married the Queen - "Chooky Embra"
Has Tony Blair resigned yet?
I'm sorry, everyone, for the appaling spelling mistake in my last post. I shall go and stand in the corner and hang my head in shame. I meant to say soubriquet...
Oh dear, no more coffee for me, I think...
re 24 - Oh I know it was Marcus B. - I'm a Now Show girl too. Your genius was to marry the two; PM and the Now Show together - I've gone to blog heaven. And I was already in awe of your name: Are you really fearless? Not even scared of wasps? Not even Anne Widdicome? I salute you.
Sorry to revert back to yesterday but am still scratching my head over the Joop Backer story (#4). Am I missing something? I'm certainly getting odd looks trying out Dutch accents.
SB28
Dr. Hackenberry,
The entire World at One was taken up by the will he/won't he resign issue and they are at it again on PM. Don't news editors know when people get bored with something? Enough is enough!!!
I'm just glad to have brought a smile to your face, Aperitif:)
If Cap'n Sequin's reading, I wonder if she can confirm that earlier, she actually said "As if by magic" when she introduced Annie Mckee (Sorry if I mis-spelt your surname, Annie)? Was it a reference to what I wrote yesterday about Eddie actually being Mister Benn ("As if by magic, a shopkeeper appeared..."). I know it's vain, but the idea of someone using an idea I planted on the show would just be too humbling for words!
As for fearless, it's actually just part of my full title:
Fearless Fred Fumanchu; Demon batter pudding hurler of Bexhill-on-Sea, and World Knobbly Knee champion, 1885
re 33
I reckon you're onto something, Fearless*.
btw My favourite episode was that in which he dressed up as a Spaceman.
Lissa/Lissa substitute, scratch my suggestion for Eddie in a giant banana suit - can we please see pictures of him dressed as a Spaceman to see whether it looks familiar?
*hope that doesn't seem over-familiar?
It's not overly familiar at all:) In fact, you can call me by my nickname, FFF...
Hmmm.... It's going back into the dim & distant past, I must admit, but I do, sort of, remember the Spaceman one, as well as the Cowboy one, so I'd add that to the list of photos for Lissa's substitute to try out on us over the next few days...
CQ - I can only assume that it is YOU who have been, behind the scenes, stirring the media ordure that is currently being heaped on TB. In order, naturally, to steal the show from Eddie while he is moonlighting in an episode of 'Mr Benn on the Beach'.
I missed the bit of the show about the odds on TB's successor. I fancy a spread bet on his date of departure myself. I hope it's soon - I'm Labour to my (red silk) underwear but I can't wait to see how gorgeous Gordon handles the pressure of PM (and PM too, of course, to which venerable institution he will no doubt give his first premiership interview - who will be in the Chair then - CQ or EM?).
Hope we get lots of gossip on Archer in the blog tomorrow - slimy or charming, CQ? Do tell...
Aperitif 25
I'm sure we're old enough to agree to differ on Tony Benn and still be friends, especially as we obviously share an enjoyment of The Now Show.
Aggie at 31 - think Star Wars!
am I the only person missing the lovely Lissa?
SB37 ?
What happened to my SB37, in response to David (32)?
Every word ** censored ****.
I too am missing Lissa. Her cool, carm manner in the face of adversity...Where's the postcard blog, Lissa?
It's not that I mind Sequin/Eddie starting a new blog per se, but it destroys the thread of thoughts started in the first one, as they then run between the two, people moan their entry has not come up (it turns up in the other thread) and chaos rules.
I'd prefer a highlighted blog entry from Sequin or Eddie that would at least alert all to a further comment....
My own "censored" entry (No 3) turned up hours after later entries were visible, hence my comment earlier. Another matter for Lissa to look into.
I was on the phone (work, sadly, gets in the way of PM) to the US, so missed all but the tail end of the Archer interview, and was amazed to find he appeared to be giving his opinion of what TB should do (see my entry No 3). I should listen again, or newspod, I suppose.
Talking about Now Show (huge vote for). Anyone remember Absolute Power? I'd love to hear Prentice McCabe deal with the current situation re TB and GB.
SB38
I had one post censored too, but then I was casting nasturtions towards Lord Archer ...
Am I seeing double or is "latest news" on the PM site twice? I'm sure I haven't had that many cocktails yet.
Ho hum.
SB39
Goodness gracious - take a day off (ok you shamed me into it) - and what happens? Censorship? Shurely shome mishtake?
SB40
Cross-eyed, but I've found it!
John H 32 and John W 34 on Captain Sequin, check out Not Much - the clever man was Tim C! The Game? Remember? All his idea, btw he hasn't been around for a while - another case of changed identity, or has he gone on holiday with Lissa too? Or Eddie?
(Other holidaymakers are also available, this is an equal opportunities post)
SB43
It occurs to me that my missing post didn’t add much to the debate, and nor does this one.
Ravelli? Take a letter...
SB44
sb45
FFF yr 33
"If Cap'n Sequin's reading, I wonder if she can confirm that earlier, she actually said "As if by magic" when she introduced Annie"
The lovely Charlotte read the opening headlines but (seamlessly) Annie McKie read the 5.15pm update.
I suspect that this is because Charlotte has a clause in her contract ensuring that she does not have to speak within 25 minutes of a certain person whose Archer I shall not mention. (I know I would if I had her charisma.)
ps Batter pudding is fine, but no more curried eggs for me.
sb46
I am intrigued by the references to censorship. Is this just the customary paranoia at posts not appearing or does Auntie have a stock email which is sent to naughty people?
I hope someone can help me so I don't have to trawl through a dictionary looking for rude words.
Thank you for your attention, your input is valued and important to me.
sb47
"I know who you are!"
sb48
re #45, all I can say is "Nurse! The screens!!"
I can't honestly believe that our posts are being censored for casting nasturtions on JA. After all, that's one of Radio 4's (and my) favourite pastimes! I still remember creasing up with laughter during a round of Greetings Cards on I'm Sorry... when Andy Hamilton came out with a very specific one... It was Comiserations on being Jeffrey Archer:
"Not matter what you say or do
You just get crosser and crosser
Because no matter what you do
We still think you're a.. Actually, maybe it's not the kindest of cards"
sb49
Okay, before anyone else points it out, I have again fallen foul of the spelling gremlins in my last post. Still, in mitigation, I offer the following extenuating factors:
1. It's early & I haven't had enough coffee yet, and
2. I'm am engineer. We're not supposed to be able to spell properly!!
Morning all!
um... sb 49... can I play, too? I mean, there's only me and Fearless around so I should be safe enough.
Good item on the Today prog about hesitations (no mention of deviation or repetition, which would be redundant when talking about politicians' speech)
To say um or er - or eh in Scotland, I might add - is better than silence 'cos it shows you're thinking about what to say. Hmm, no surprise there.
btw, silence isn't a good idea on the radio if it goes on too long...
Was going to comment on the WoM notice board, but it's closed. The moderator can't have arrived at work yet.
Rufus @ 47:
Argh, I'm afraid, I'm very afraid.
But I wonder about George the chatbot being described thus:
"He's a profound intellect and speaks 40 languages"
He's an intellect is he? hmm.
Wonder if anyone in here is really a chatbot?
Morning, Frances!
Must admit I missed that bit on the Today programme, but I decided to listen to a CD on the way to work instead. Ah well, I'll try to remember to do a listen again when I get home... As for deviation, that's all a politicians' speech is nowadays.
I think you can tell by my appalling spelling I'm no chatbot!
SB53
Morning everyone,
Frances and 'Triple F', what's a chat bot? - I can only think "talkative arse" but that would be a 'chatty bot' surely?
SB54
Aha, I should've looked at the website Rufus posted at 47 before I asked - now I know: a chatbot is a talkative arse - although evidently a fairly smart one.
sb54
Hi Aperitif:)
You know, I think that would be 'Lord Archer' again....
"Unlike many other conversational programmes, it's not trying to merely be logical. It's trying to form relationships, to be entertaining, and it can seem rather alive."
Rufus (definitely not 47) (:-) ) thanks for that link - Aperitif this answers your 53 as well)
At last I've found my biological father, I never try to be logical, merely or otherwise, and would dearly love to be entertaining. Also, I laughed so much while reading it I snorted coffee down my nose onto the keyboard (not just any old coffee, Sai**burys Monsooned (sic) Malabar, coffee beans spread out on platforms along the Indian Ocean to be monsooned on according to the blurb on the front of the packet. Not only that but remarkably it only cost 99p for a pouch and is quite decent. Eat you heart out M*S)
(Other supermarkets are available, and in my case much closer for ease of regular patronage, but it's nice to get out and about from time to time)
Rufus (also 46) I got a new message yesterday morning (or maybe the day before, it's all a blur) which said i had posted too soon after my previous post and not only was I not going to be put into a moderated holding pattern, but they were just going to ignore it and I'd have to post it again later. I paraphrase, but it wasn't dissimilar to that. Needless to say I didn't have the post any more so..whatever it was went unsaid. Maybe for the best eh?
SB54
Aoeritif - see yours at 62 on Stand In-
- I quite like brown shoes with black trousers, not that I'm short of shoes of course. Yes a kindly fatherly type figure tried to explain HTML stylie things to me too a few days ago when I asked, and like all good intentions, my attempts remain intended rather than actual. Let me know how you get on? You might explain in words I can understand? No, no it's not a woman thing, I'm descended from a chatbox, it's official, and I AM happier typing than speaking.
Can recommend the "sn**ting" of coffee for speed of keyboard use - see previous of mine which hasn't appeared yet, this'll sound v odd if they get the order mixed up?
SB56, daresay not at this time of the morn. Btw is there a kind of unoffical cut-off point when adding to previous days' blogs becomes a waste of effort, otherwise I'm going to have no day left in my time at all?
Dr. Quackenbush,
As your censored post was to me, I'd like to know what happened to it as well. Whenever I try to even refer to a certain word, my post gets deleted. Perhaps you could try an expurgated version.
SB58
Hello again,
Valery P, re your 56, I got one of those messages the other day too - something about not posting too quickly in succession to prevent abuse. I dunno what difference it makes though: I can be polite quickly and abusive slowly, and suspect that this isn't an unusual talent.
Re 57, I managed some italics in my post no.54 above. I'm really proud!
I bow to your bravery with the whole trouser/shoe thing. Actually, I rarely wear shoes - it's boots, boots, sandals and boots depending on the season. No objection to shoes - it's just a habit thing.
Has Tony said anything about when he's off yet?
SB60
btw David M/Dr Hackenbush, I posted a whole thing about Tony Blair assasinating GWB on the 'Captain Sequin' blog earlier and it's still there. Do they just like me?(Delusions of loveability...)
Well, I've seen the you can't post again yet message myself. I agree with you, Aperitif. What's speed got to do with abuse?
As for style, I'm not going to say anything! I'm a guy in his 30's so I'll freely admit that anything I say about fashion will be way off the mark :p
Regarding censorship (see 32, 38, 58, 60):
I think it was the bit when I mimed the pronunciation of my name that probably led to my earlier post not appearing...
Suffice to say:
I referred to the fact that, when listening to minutes and minutes’ worth of stuff about (breath), who-wants-who-to-leave-office-and-when and who-doesn’t-want-to-yet-and-why, I had been thinking it was about time some actual news got reported. It was easier to read last time, and to type.
What happened in the flu epidemic? I got flu.
SB63
My last SB62
I thank you.
Valery @57, a cut off point would be a good idea, but would it work? obviously we want to keep posting, but with no blog up yet for today we have to add to yesterdays which seems silly to me. But presumably there is a time before which Sequin and/or Eddie and/or any other stand in cannot post, I dunno what time they get in to start work. Perhaps some other person could open up the blog at 9 - as long as it wasn't Rupert because I don't know if he could manage that and sending out the newsletter as well. As that has apparently just arrived I suppose that MIGHT mean that the blog for today is here as well. or perhaps not.
SB62
re 61
Oh dear FFF,
I too am in my thirties, yet like to believe I am a stylish sort. Have I been kidding myself ever since I left 29 behind? The shame!
(I might add that I'm doing this fairly quickly yet not even slightly abusively.)
Nice use of italics btw.
Trust me, Aperitif, I'm not saying a woman in her thirties can't be stylish. Perish the thought! I would even say the opposite. I just meant to say that guys in their thirties tend to think either "work smart" or "jeans and a t-shirt casual". Actually trying to be stylish is an anathema to us, I think...
typed very leisurely and sb 66
Thanks for noticing the italics :D
SB67
This will sound a bit sexist (because it is): Trying too hard is usually a bad thing for a bloke. For women, it's about trying really hard to look as if you really haven't tried. It's a strange, sorry (fashion) world we live in. You sound like you don't try too hard Fearless, so I'm guessing you're a pretty stylish guy.
Don't shatter my illusions by disagreeing!
Just home in time for Newsnight and it's utter pants about TB and GB again. Thank goodness for the PM blog.
SB68
I've just looked and found that my whole "Tony rubbing out 'crap' - aka George W. Bush" entry has now disappeared, along with everything after it.
Damn! I thought I'd got away with that one. I mean, did someone really think I was suggesting that the PM should do away with the nutter over the water? Why would Tony listen to me anyway? Honestly, guys, c'mon!
Yes, Aperitif(68), that one was there for quite a while so it can't have been expunged by moderation, so someone must have complained? After all we are exhorted to complain many, many times ( one learns to screen it out I find) down the blog. Perhaps some idjit took it seriously???
Also with you on the whole trying too hard thing - men trying too hard look far worse than women (trying too hard). I also segue from boots to sandals, but do have a fair old selection of mules and other in-between season type shoes too. One can never have too many shoes. If anyone's interested.
(other kinds of footwear are also available) (and I probably have some of them too)
SB69 - oh
SB70
Strange that everything after it disappeared as well though.
Why the "oh" at the end?
sb71
Aperitif,
I was hoping you wouldn't ask.
It's by no means an exceptional number as we've had 69 posts or more on August 17,18, 22,23,24,25, Sept 1st and they passed unremarked.
sb72
re: 67. Well, I agree that when guys try too hard to be "stylish" it can look horrendous, so that's not being sexist, it's being truthful. No complaint from me on that post! As for me, I try not to try, if you see what I mean! If I feel comfortable with something, I wear it. If I don't then I won't! Not sure if that makes me stylish or not, but it'll do for me. let's see... today it's jeans, a white linen shirt, and a pair of black shoes. Nothing I particularly thought about putting together, just what I feel comfortable wearing to the office today....
Sounds pretty kule to me, FFF. I'd call that stylish.
btw, does anyone else share my suspicion that jeans are, to all intets and purposes, 'invisible' or neutral? ie if you wear jeans (not silly embellished ones, just normal not-height-of-fashion-so-won't-go-out-of-fashion ones like my beloved L*v*s 501s, the fashion statement then gets transferred to the rest of your clothes?
eg if I go out wearing my fives plus a sweatshirt or t-shirt, I'm casual. If I wear 'em with a pretty top, I'm summery. A tailored shirt, I'm smart. With something slinky or low-cut, I'm having a sad bash at being sexy. etc, etc
Oh - my last post shb 73. But it might not appear I used the word $3xy. Should have known better. We think of higher things here.
Well, Frances O, it looks like your last post has had the last post played to it! What did you say?
sb74
If you must use an iffy word, why not try the keys to the right of the letters involved. It's quite straightforward then, like djoy off a shovel.
sb77
I think you're right, Frances. Jeans (and I'm with you on the L*v* 501 call as well!) are the mushroom of fashion. They take on the flavour of whatever you put 'em with...
SB77
re 73, I like your theory Frances, but 501s were height of fashion some time back, so they might look a bit "retro-stylish" now. How does that fit in?
Evidently "sexy" isn't too iffy a word anyway. While we're on the subject, I have to share my pet hate: The inappropriate use of the word "sexy". I contend:
1. People can be described as "sexy";
2. The clothes that people are wearing can be described as "sexy", in that they have an impact upon the sexiness of the wearer;
3. Ditto footwear, in fact, even moreso than clothes;
4. All other use of the word (e.g. re cars, jobs, food etc.) is made by those who are trying too hard and therefore completely anti-sexy.
5. Any person who uses the word in relation to animals ought to be arrested. Immediately.
Thank you for listening: I feel much better now.
btw, FFF (72), you sound rather effortless and stylish to me. I'm getting quite a mental image. What about the socks/lack of? I need to complete the picture. Or maybe we should change the subject - I've just read that back and I'm coming across all sleazy! Sorry! (Note to self - do not think flirtatious/salacious thougths about fellow PM bloggers... or, if you must, keep them to yourself...)
Re (71). Yes, I had my suspicions too, Ian Y, but I dismissed them, thnking better of Valery P. Then I read her chocolate and coffee entry from today and I think you're probaly right.
Do behave, Ms P.! ;)
Oh, all the posts that disappeared from Captain Sequin last night are back now! Did someone 'uncomplain' or was it just lack-of-Lissa-gremlins? Perhaps we'll never know.
Sorry for the delay in posting, but it's a friday, so it was off to the pub for lunch for our office... So don't expect any great pearls of wisdom from an FFF who's had a couple of beers!
As for socks, they're a sort of darkish blueish grey. I hope the mental image me is behaving!
Hmmmm, having thought about it more, I'd agree with you mostly, Aperitif, but I'd say clothes are more sexy than shoes, but not in the way you'd think. I think the more "ordinary" the clothes are can enhance the sexiness of the person wearing them. It's hard to explain, but it's true....
Good grief - you turn your back for a mo to do some work and what do you find when you get back - the word "salacious". That's never a good sign. IY - 69? Tsk, tsk.
And I'm not even going to mention "pearls of wisdom".
As for Drinks and Fearless - no, I'm not going there.
Oh, that's disappointing. I thought I'd have a quick rant as an introduction to my comment and now I've arrived at the "business end", I realise that I haven't really got anything to say.
Aha, John H! Are you in fact John Hutton? Loyal Blairite and non-pink shirt wearing "bloke" type? - I ask because I'm sure he would rasnt and then run out of things to say too :-)
I'm not sure about the term "buiness end" on a Friday afternoon either.
re my 83
I apologise sincerely for the spelling errors - runaway fingers and lack of checking.
Drinks - WFaI:22 "...a quick fumble..."??!
Can I not just be me? I'm not sure that I've ever spent a lot of time pondering identity before (although I was in a discussion the other day about whether it was "religion" or "identity" (where religion is but a part) that was the basis of the fighting in the Balkans) but can't help thinking that however exalted some of the alternatives, I'll just settle for me.
Are you and Fearless getting a room then?
sb 85
:D We forgive you, Aperitif! After all, my spelling's been far worse on occasion...
Well done Ap., I knew you'd work it out eventually (re your 78).
I've reached the age when I shall wear purple and be who/how I am pleased to be, for a change. Actually purple doesn't suit me, but I'm sure you know the poem and get the gist of what I'm saying? Can't be fussed to look it up now but it's a goody and if you're in your thirties look forward to identifying with it in about 20 years time. I'll post it tomorrow (It'll have about as much relevance then as any of my others ever do)
sb 88.
I do like that poem, Valery.
btw, anyone remember the 'Hell's Grannies' sketch from 'Python'? Something to aspire to, perhaps?
Let's hear it for senile delinquents
SB89
I know the poem Valery, and a few others of hers - she does some good stuff about gardening (it must be good as I've no interest in gardening otherwise). I hope your day of decadence (as I'm now sure it was) was thoroughly enjoyable. I might try to have one of those today, although I'm presently just checking emails and listening to the News Quiz (loved Andy Hamilton's reference to 'Tantric Resignation'), so maybe I need to try a little harder.
John H (85), of course you can be you - I'm just trying to work out who "you" are (is)! I like to have a picture of you guys and "John H" isn't giving me much, except, as I said before, visions of Humph - a persona you deny. OK, I'll leave it alone and let a picture emerge slowly... As for getting a room with Fearless, I think I've already apologised for my earlier inappropriate thoughts - don't make me have more! I think I was jealous of Valery's exciting day yesterday: mine was fairly dull.
sb90
Well, I must admit the poem reference has passed me by. The only poetry I have in the house is/are as follows:
Shakespeare Sonnets (part of a complete collection)
Emily Dickinson (Did you know all her poems can be sung to the tune of "Yellow Rose Of Texas"?)
A collection of Poems on the Underground, and
2 volumes of poems by Spke Milligna, the well-known typing error...
I'm intruiged by this mental image you have of us all, Ap (if I can be so familiar to call you that?)... I think you ought to tell us more!
(Plus, you have no need to apologise to me:D)
SB91
Hello Fearless,
The mental image that shall stay with me for the rest of the day is one of you in jeans and a white linen shirt singing Emily Dickinson poems very loudly!
What colour socks are you wearing today?
Oh John H will so tick me off* for this one...
(*maybe that's why I think he's Humph)
Hi Aperitif,
No socks today (it's a relaxing day of not doing anything particular). I'mnot singing at the moment, promise! Instead, I'm enjoying a new CD that came yesterday:)
I know what you mean about John H. Hang on a minute... If he's Humph, who's Samantha? Does that make me Colin Sell???
What's the CD? (Sorry for delay - was in the shower)
SB94
btw, nah, I don't see you as a Colin Sell type.
You've probably not heard of her, but....
It's Maria McKee - Acoustic Tour 2006.... It's not in the shops 'til monday, but shopping on the internet means I can usually get things slightly early:D
I have indeed heard of her - didn't she do "Show me heaven" a few years back?
I am very drunk now. I have just had a blazing political row with a taxi driver. I really ought to knoe butter...
Did I say the poem one ought to be 96? Will it even be allowed?
Hi Aperry. Taxi drivers are just asking to be argued with - its in their job description. Fret not young 'un!
One glass of champers and jolly evening of sparkling mineral water. I'm now putting it to bed with a glass of minervois. I mention this only so I can feel that I am joining in the comments that reference wine, and then only because the poetry references are a little lost on me. I'm afraid I've always felt a bit on the outside of poetry as a rule - I'm not sure I own any book of poetry. All of a sudden, I recognise this as a failing in life.
Because of the girlie recognition of VP's purple poem, I started seaching and came up with only one possibility - a poem by Jenny Joseph. Perhaps one of the enlightened could put me right?
Thinking about it, I do have a ditty by Carl Sandburg on my website but, to be fair, that's more a blast from the past and used as an illustration. Hey ho, perhaps I can look forward to one day waking up and feeling an uncontrollable urge to read poetry. (See how I kept that sentence really simple so as not to feed the suggestivity circuits of fellow commenters?)
Since I was driving tonight, I can reasonably consider myself to be in the "taxi" role - and I can assure you that I was anything but argumentative. Sweetness and light all the way.
sb99
Gah! I knew it! The only song anyone remembers MM for is the one song that isn't representative of the rest of her catalogue, and it's the one song she never plays live. A better song to think of is "A Good Heart" by Fergal Sharkey, which she also wrote. In fact, it's on the new CD. It's much better...
It's never a good idea to have a barney with a taxi driver, is it. At least he still dropped you off home:)
sb100
Sorry about the rant earlier... I just wish MM was better known. She's one of the best singers I know, and she gets no recognition:(
Anyway, I just thought that we've got names for Eddie/Eric, Cap'n Sequin, and Figlover, but we haven't named the new permanent host of BH (starting in about 40 mins or so). I'd like to start by suggestiong Po'Cman, often seen wandering the darkened corridors of the Beeb, eating mints, while trying to escape the ghosts of old DJs....
As I suspected - they wouldn't "allow" it - my true 96 - glad I had the presence of mind, even after all the sauvignon blanc and viognier, to do the follow up as a reference point. Well done John H - that's the one, Jenny Joseph's, Warning-When I am Old I Shall Wear Purple. I recommend it heartily to one and all - not just to women either. As far as I can tell, just about the only perk of encroaching Old Age is an increasing tendency to shrug off the shackles of propriety For It's Own Sake.
Hmmm, considering my last few posts, also developing a tendency to use an increasing number of capital letters when Typing. Is that a plus or a minus?
FF, I'm off to listen to Your Woman post haste - I recognise a cry from the heart when I see one.
John H - Your Website - what? where? why did we/I not know about this? Did I miss out on something?
See my 97, I must humbly own up to a - horrors - typo. For its read it's. A pet hate of mine, I must blame the wine goggles again
SB 101
PSGiven the popularity of this blog and its continuity - why did the next day's one grind to a halt?
EEEK - see previous, 101, with self correction re my 97. May I now eat even more humble pie (soaks up the hangover I find) and correct myself AGAIN? For Its Own Sake not It's.
O dear, I'll go and check the oil in the car or summat. At least the Kraken is out of bed, that's a start.....
FF, MM is EX. Only have tapeplayer in car (and tape collection unacceptably depressing) so will be listening to Kraken's choice from his iRiver, as played through a strange but wonderful device which looks like a cassette with a telephone wire attached and facilitates such goings-on. Thinks - suppose it would work with a CDwalkman too then? I daresay the batteries would be flat in that though, it's so long since he used it.
SB102
re 101
Hi Valery,
S&S didn't grind to a halt - there were several posts after that last one showing (yours I believe). They dissappeared on Friday and haven't been seen since. It could be my fault: I tried to post one that said "Do not complain about this post" just to see what would happen (I was having a very dull day while you were having excitement).
FFF, sorry for any offence caused. If her other stuff is different I may well try her out, because frankly, the one mentioned above? - A bit dull. Still, I'm feeling delicate enough this morning (and seriously regretting letting the stupid man rile me), so the rant was an uncomfortable expeience - no more please!
Slept through Broadcasting House. How did P O'C do?
SB 104
Hurrah! The S&S missing stuff is back!
Oh, Aperitif! I'm sorry for that, really I am... Particularly as you were feeling delicate. It's just I had a very similar discussion with someone from work who said he'd "never listen to her stuff, it's all bland like Show Me Heaven" even though he admitted he'd never heard her other stuff, and no amount of cogent arguments would persuade him to take a chance. The idiocy of some people.... Sheesh! Anyway, I honestly didn't mean to have a go at anyone here, promise! Please forgive me! (hangs head down low, and pleads....)
As for Po'Cman, he did a reasonably good job for the section I heard, but I missed the last 10 minutes or so as I'd got to the gym, and it looks a little suss if you're sat in your car on your own for 10 minutes on a Sunday morning!
Hi FFF, You are forgiven, although rubbing it in that you were at the gym while I was sleeping off an excess of vino is somewhat cruel. Back to Monday and back to the swimming pool this morning though, so I feel much better. And I will have a listen to MM sometime soon, as you and Valery both recommend her.
This is becoming such a bad habit - checking this blog just about every time I check email. Will someone plaese shame me into leaving it alone!!
Thank you.
Phew! I wasn't trying to rub it in.... In fact, I only went yesterday as I'd overslept on Saturday, and didn't get round to going then!
As for MM :o) I'd recommend the following priorities:
1. Life Is Sweet (classed by many as a forgotten masterpiece of the '90s. It's a bit difficult to find, so if you see it....)
2. High Dive
3. Maria McKee
4. Acoustic Tour 2006 (The CD that started this whole conversation!)
5. Peddlin' Dreams
6. Live In Hamburg
Aargh, where's it all gone?
Grr again!
Aha! Posts returned.
Fearless I shall make an old-fashioned pen and paper note of your recommendatiosn - just in case the page wanders off again.
Cheers.
I'm glad to help! I see some of the posts are back, but others have "escaped" again. I hope poor Lissa isn't getting too stressed by us all whingeing... She's going to need another holiday in a week or so's time at this rate!
Good grief - so this one's come alive again has it? I know what you mean Aperry, about constant checking.......
Thanks for suggestions FF. Quieter day today so will enjoy.
SB112 ?Do I care?
Fearless - go to
If you can ignore the big hair and shoulder pads - this is magic! Not only got me dancing on a slow day, but it's got my favourite ever saxophonist, Dave Sandborn. That's got White Horses out of my head too!!!
SB113
Val, that's great! It's just what I needed at the end of the day....
You realise that I'm going to be spending the next couple of hours going through all the other MM videos on YouTube. So much for doing nothing this evening!
On a completely different tack, I always enjoy watching the video on this website after a long day. It always brings a smile to my face... click and then click on the picture a little way down...
Hey Fearless, that was excellent! Is it a new one every day?
Glad you like the link to MM and her many vids, couldn't find any of your recs there :o(
but there's always amazon...You're right about the lack of doing nothing!
Hi Val! Sadly there isn't a new one every day, much as I'd like there to be. Still it's a wonderfully silly thing to see at the end of a tough day. (I still have dreams of doing similar myself one of these days...)
Looking through the vids so far, the one I really wish were there is the title track from Life Is Sweet. The live version is incredible. I have memories of seeing her at Bush Hall in January. When she sang that as the final song, the place was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. It was one of those true "shivers down the spine" moments that truly great music can make happen
Well, I wanted to have a nose at whatever was on this wonderful link you two were on about but none of the posts have any links in! - Apart from the initial YouTube one, which I have duly watched and rather enjoyed.
What's going on here then?
Sorry, I've just realised what I was doing wrong. Addled head; sorry.
Appy - if you click on the magic word in FF's 114 (click here - well not here, but there) you get magically whisked off to a really good site. Don't know how he does that, I can only copy and paste...
Hope your pre not quite interview was all good?
Ach - you've answered yourself - enjoy!
Oops! Sorry about that, Appy.... I was trying to be a bit swish with the old html style things. I promise to behave myself in future :o)
So, how did things go?
FF - found Life is Sweet to listen to on amazon.com, on the High Dive album :o)
SB 123
Hi FFF, Hi Valery,
I think it went well thanks. In fact, I'm a bit worried that I can't think of anything stupid that I might've said: Usually, if there's one "d'oh" moment to dwell on after an interview then one has probably done OK; if there are two or more, not so good. I'm not accustomed to none-at-all. I don't know what it means but I will find out within a few days.
I can't see that video just now, as I don't have the right software on my laptop. I might go up to the study and look from the other PC later but I can't summon up the enegry for even that short walk just now. It'll give me something to look forward to later anyway. Cheers.
Hey, V. Trust me, much as I like that version, I'd class it as the weakest of the three recordings she's made of that song. In order, I'd go with:
1. Live in Hamburg
2. Life is Sweet
3. High Dive
I'm not saying the HD version is bad. I just think it's over orchestrated....
sb 125 (assuming my last post went through okay)
I'm glad to hear the meeting went okay. Just try to put it out of your mind, and have a glass of the grape juice with the rest of us :o)
"Being magically whisked off..."? I really can't think of anything to say expect "Ooh err!!!"
125 - yes well...not quite what I meant but whatever
Apperitivo - chill. You can think of me networking tomorrow evening if you so wish, I'll be trying really hard to keep the d'oh moments at bay : )
SB126. This has been a popular one, non?
Whoops, I meant except, not expect. Some day I'll learn to preview posts before submitting them...
Oui, certainement!
Enjoy the networking.
G'night all.
Ah well, almost time for me to turn in:( I have the fun of a Six Sigma presentation first thing tomorrow morning, so I can't promise I'll be in the best of moods when I get the chacnce to log on...
Sweet dreams, folks!
C
and sb128 and 129 respectively
Bien sur! Mais, je pense que c'est seulemant nos trois qui restons ici maintenant...