Thanks, Adam, for highlighting the superb writing of E.B. White, which remains as relevant as ever. In rereading this essay after many years, I was once again struck by White's clever use of his departed dog, Fred, as a stand-in for nosy FBI agents snooping under the covers for subversives. A sublime form of ridicule, yet it is a terrifically serious subject--especially these days when authoritarian governments are on the resurgence.
I'm delighted to see you here, Fred, and am so glad you are also a fan of White. He's as good as they come. Fred is a great presence in the essay for sure. I hope others seek out the essay and enjoy all that White accomplishes with it (and each of his classic pieces). You've captured it succinctly. If I'd been able to do that so well, I'd not have relegated Fred.
Thanks, Adam, for highlighting the superb writing of E.B. White, which remains as relevant as ever. In rereading this essay after many years, I was once again struck by White's clever use of his departed dog, Fred, as a stand-in for nosy FBI agents snooping under the covers for subversives. A sublime form of ridicule, yet it is a terrifically serious subject--especially these days when authoritarian governments are on the resurgence.
I'm delighted to see you here, Fred, and am so glad you are also a fan of White. He's as good as they come. Fred is a great presence in the essay for sure. I hope others seek out the essay and enjoy all that White accomplishes with it (and each of his classic pieces). You've captured it succinctly. If I'd been able to do that so well, I'd not have relegated Fred.