November 19, 2002
But the fact that he reads a lot of popular fiction and nonfiction and reviews it on Amazon is actually one of the more endearing things I know about him. Along with the fact that he loves science fiction and is still enthusiastic about dinosaurs. Hey. I love science fiction and dinosaurs too, and also pop nonfiction books like Guns, Germs, and Steel.
Maybe this means I’m regressive, too, or have “cheesey” tastes. Probably, in the eyes of some people, that’s true. I’m oddly reminded of all the reasons the media constantly told me I should dislike Al Gore. He’s wonky! He’s a brainiac and a social oddball! He goes on about science! Goodness, how unlike any of my friends. Can’t have that. [07:42 PM]
I have similar feelings about Gingrich. When he gets stuck on partisan politics, I can't loathe him enough. When he wanders afield -- that is to say, when he addresses things that aren't political hot potatoes of the moment -- he's actually a very interesting guy.
Did Gingrich read Guns, Germs, and Steel? Well, good for him. I didn't get that far into the list. (And good for you for apparently reading more deeply than I did.) My opinion of his taste might have risen a little if I'd read past Clancy and Ambrose. I like science fiction, mysteries and popular histories, too. I've even read a few Oprah books. I've just never found people who read nothing but those kinds of books terribly interesting. In fairness to me -- it was a quick, one-line comment, and not meant to be taken any more seriously than that. In fairness to Gingrich -- his limited taste probably isn't any worse than most politicians. All the worse for politics though.
Ah--you are a much more forgiving person than I.
Politics trumps all for me.
Jane
Hard-Hitting Moderator: Teresa Nielsen Hayden.
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