It has been the most tragic start to the year of course, but against the backdrop of the discussion about the importance of a free press it is ironic that the one thing that had me laughing out loud this week was a WhatsApp message from Bob with a copy of a letter he had had published in a somewhat controversial monthly journal.
On his return to school this week – having left me a rabbit to skin on Wednesday eveningsuppose as a sort of leaving gift – he found a back copy waiting for him of a magazine that his grandparents had recklessly subscribed him to. I am talking about “The Countryman” of course. Founded in 1927 and with a circulation of about 23,000 it is essential reading for anyone struggling with the demands of Geography, Class Civ and English Lit A level courses. It appears he had taken a moment out of his busy academic schedule towards the end of last term to write to the Editor who had seen fit to publish it. I’ve got to tell you I almost fell off my chair when I read the attached. I mean what possessed him to write such a lame letter and to include a photo of his dog for goodness sake????
I suppose that may sound a little churlish of me. The truth is I’m a wee bit jealous of him. I have spent an inordinate amount of time over the years writing to a variety of newspapers and magazines, but reflecting on this upon receiving the news of Bob’s triumph at the tender age of 17, I reluctantly had to concede to myself that even at my advanced age, I have only ever had one letter published. It was the South China and Morning Post so that’s pretty cool. The topic far more relevant and, naturally, much better written.
I know. I have no shame!
2015 can only get better surely. Talking of which I’m off on Monday. Shooting woodcock at Houghton Hall. It’s a great surprise to me I’ve been invited back because I didn’t behave very well when I was there last year. Blame some ropey New Zealand Pinot Noir which induced a severe bout of alcohol poisoning.
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