Trump voters not unique in falling for lies

  The other night, a group of very talented people were rewarded for their stunning accomplishments. The Academy Awards are given to people who are very, very good at lying. Actors, directors, cinematographers and thousands more all work together to create situations and worlds that con us into thinking they are real. It’s art, and justifiably rewarded. We are creatures who enjoy stories, and we’re good at suspending disbelief. This is why it’s so easy to con us — internet scams, phone scams, and now A … (read more)

Where is the woodcutter’s youngest son,/ the poor widow’s clever daughter? Surely/ somewhere there’s an enchanted sword, a prince/ in bear’s clothing, a talking cat, a key/ to a secret door. Isn’t there a lamp?

I am very grateful to Ollie Cultrara for their perspective on climate.

I am delighted that the Independent is publishing articles about the school turmoil that went on in the 1960s when I was a child (and oblivious!). It’s so good to have a long perspective. A good reminder that there is no perfect or permanent solution.Mary … (read more)