Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
The literary icon Charles Dickens would have been 205 years old today. If he was still with us, the Hampshire born writer would have no doubt have spent a day book signing at Waterstones, prior to moving on to his local Berni Inn for a carvery with his great, great, great, grandchildren. After all that... Continue Reading →
I wanted to start this monologue with a simile that aptly describes this seemingly endless precipitation currently blighting Blighty. Within that prose, I wanted the colloquy to paint a picture of such clarity and descriptive quality that would render readers awestruck, before saying “Oh bollocks, I forgot to record that James Nesbitt drama last night!”... Continue Reading →
Today the 4th February is World Cancer Day. Around the globe events are taking place to increase awareness, educate and raise funds for a multitude of the research and support charities that underpin the fight against this rancid disease. The people selflessly involved in today’s events do so with the objective of somehow making a... Continue Reading →
Well it's reached the last day of a month where several legends from the entertainment business have been taken from us. Unfortunately January 2016, as part of his pact with the grim reaper, didn't want to go with a whimper. Consequently, this morning we were hit with the sad news of the passing of broadcaster/presenter... Continue Reading →
I've just seen a trailer for a program about 19th century French military commander Napoleon Bonaparte. Despite having an interest in history, I don’t recollect a great deal about the Napoleonic Wars from my schooldays. In fact I don’t remember much about my schooldays if truth be told, although in my defence it was over... Continue Reading →
This evening Scots around the world will celebrate Burns Night to mark the birthday of 18th century Scottish poet and lyricist Rabbie (Robert) Burns. Among the celebrations will be feasting on haggis, neeps and tatties, imbibing a wee dram to toast the national poet of Scotland and, in some cases, a recital of the Bard... Continue Reading →
This morning Facebook reminded me that a year ago today I received a ticket for The Marriage of Figaro ........ I recall at the time being upbeat on receipt of this, as you can't beat a good wedding, can you?! I had chosen to take in this production after savouring my first experience of opera... Continue Reading →
This morning the unforgiving precipitation and foreboding grey overhead nimbus clouds returned to East Leeds. The few days of respite from rain have departed and my mind turns once again to the conundrum of whether I should build an ark! In my back garden, a solitary robin shelters forlornly under pyracantha leaves, whilst feasting on... Continue Reading →
I wrote recently of my scepticism surrounding old wives tales! During that mini diatribe, I carelessly omitted to touch on the comedic value of these superstitious folk tales when misquoted! As with mixed metaphors and idioms, there is something inherently funny about people attempting to impart words of wisdom, only for them to incorrectly delivered!... Continue Reading →