I don't consider it an accusation, Nigel. I have seen John Whitworth castigated, mocked and ridiculed for his opinions. You and others are quick to say he is a wonderful poet, but...
You are free to do that as long as John doesn't mind, and John seems to handle his business with much aplomb. But it does get old. One would think that a contemporary poet of John's caliber would be more respected all around.
If it is all in good fun between you, then certainly, I withdraw my remarks. I maintain that such repeated acts does have at least a residual effect on ones reputation and possibly their book sales. And John has yet to stand for an political office. Imagine if he did.
I agree with you Bob, 100%. Extreme criticism is different than demeaning a colleague with whom you've worked for some years and likely haven't had the balls to accuse him to his face at any time prior to.
The problem with the letter is that there are accusation that cannot be confirmed, only denied. That's a nasty business to my mind. Attorneys at Law have a code to live by too. I have found that the majority of attorneys violate their pledge when they wake up in the morning. How to pick a good one for the SC? I don't know.
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