Several weeks ago, I wrote a few brief paragraphs on Jacques Brel, none of which you will remember. Amongst the searing insights, I said many things: “At least, though” for example and “a perversion of himself” for another. Most lamentably, I concluded with this most off-hand statement: “Incidentally, the most accurate translation of Brel’s works, [...]

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Mr. Bailie and I had no debate over the last figure we would discuss on his radio show. I suggested Nile Rodgers and heads shook in agreement around the room. In the intervening month, I had almost entirely forgotten about it, until it was announced, via Mr. Bailie to me, that Mr. Rodgers would appear [...]

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