When I read Edmund Morris’ memoir of Ronald Reagan a couple of years ago, I was struck by the dinner described in the introduction, hosted by the President and attended by political historians. How wonderful it would be to share a meal with so many writers! I’ve since daydreamed about the authors that I’d invite over for a luncheon should my address ever be 24 Sussex Dr.
While I suppose it would be important to have Richard J. Gwyn, Adam Daifallah, Margaret Macmillan, Andrew Cohen, and Conrad Black over to discuss political history, I think that my first get-together would have to be in honour of fiction.
Therefore, while I would be sure to invite W.H. New, Robert Fulford, Yann Martel, and Rex Murphy to keep the conversation both literary and entertaining, the Top 5 authors that I would dine with would be:
Sandwiches, chips, and ale at the Prime Minister’s house, anyone?
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Do you have room for a cousin at this table?
If so, could you also use your connections to bring Alistair MacLeod into the conversation? Maybe Rudy Wiebe, too?
How about we arrange a deal? I’ll vote for you, if you send me an invite.
Geoff, if I ever have a luncheon with the heroes of Canadian Literature at 24 Sussex, I will be sure to send you an invitation.
MacLeod? Sure!
Wiebe? Why not?!
It sounds like you’re made to control the executive branch. I mean, just look at the way your spoken word can summon the Canadian literati to your table!
I’m quite jealous, but I’ll still shamelessly exploit this family connection.
You’ll be running for the NDP, right?