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Neither speak lost Estrucan; too short, too sibilant, too clear
We are in a former state, in a principality, of the Holy Roman Empire – it seems lost Etruscan is the way of speech here, filled with short sibilance and long silent vowels. Like…
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The two funniest words in the language: Groucho Marx. As the gang roasts Johnny Carson.
Groucho proves that, as Alan King says, he " makes Don Rickles look like the flying nun." Groucho: "I went to Nebraska to talk to Johnny's mother. I am happy to report that she…
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Poem for the Season: “December 25” by David Lehman
Christmas defeated Chanukahonce again last nightby a margin of three billion dollarsor so, but every time I heara Yiddish word like bupkesin a movie (L.A. Confidential)or when Oleg Cassini in that new play Jackiecalls…
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The Rule of Three: Movie Multiple Choice # 1 [by David Lehman]
Why are there always three sailors or soldiers, never two or four, on shore leave or furlough? (a) Because Gene Kelly favored the “rule of three” (b) Because one can sing, one can dance,…
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“Amapola” [as sung by Bob Eberly and Helen O’Connell]
The next time you see Once Upon a Time in America, Sergio Leone's great masterpiece, be sure to listen to "Amapola," which plays a key role in the movie as Robert de Niro ("Noodles")…
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“Sing, Sing, Sing” [with Benny Goodman and company]
Clarinetists are often asked whom they prefer, Artie Shaw (born May 23) or Benny Goodman (born May 30). It's a good cocktail party icebreaker for swing enthusiasts. Here is Benny's great statement of the…
