X Fraser about spelling
Evidently I must belong to your Father's age, dear Fray. To me spelling is fundamental . And as an ex-teacher I can't see how to appreciate parts of English Literature (Spenser or Rushdie, old or modern) without estimating also the correctness of the written word. And of course the sound of the spoken word. For a couple of centuries poor Will Shakespeare had his last name deprived of the final "e". And it does sound different , cut short as if something is missing. Again, sooner or later you are going to be a grandfather, my wish is that you'll follow your Father's steps. Ok. I'm an old f..t but think of the first lines in "Eleanor Rigby/ who picks up the rice / in a church/where/ a wedding has been. Your Father would have had you notice how hard and soft sounds conflict, depicting the loneliness of a poor old spinster better than a painting. Ok, ok, I'm older than you. All six years older. Forgive me.
maria