30 November 2004A matter of degreeThe difference between a mere misfortune and an actual calamity, according to Benjamin Disraeli:
If Gladstone fell into the Thames, it would be a misfortune. But if someone pulled him out again, that would be a calamity.
In a suggested update to this Vent, a reader, in addition to pointing out that the first WTC attack should have been included among the "terrorist attacks," recommended I include also the construction of the United Nations facilities in New York. I demur at the time, it didn't seem so but if the UN (the organization, not necessarily the buildings) should ever collapse, I plan to list it as a "public service." Not to mention "urban renewal." Posted by: McGehee at 3:08 PM on 30 November 2004Not to mention absolute proof of the existence of a good and just Deity. Posted by: Eric at 5:10 PM on 30 November 2004 |