Perpendiculars, maybe

Alright this will be my last Potter-themed post for some time. I'm splitting reading duties between the Jones book and this new H.Po, which sort of loses it's standing as a "children's" novel when you use the word "enumerate" on the first page. I only learned what that word meant studying discrimination cases in first year law school.

As for the rest of the book, so far, so good. I don't know if reviews have picked up on this, because I've avoided them thus far, but the book certainly has a post-9/11 bent. When a book begins with a Prime Minister dealing with attacks in London and encourages being suspicious of those around you, I can't be faulted for drawing parallels.

Regardless of its significance or popularity, I like the Potter books because. as one who studied at a castle, I mildly identify with him. (That, and from my birth, I've had this burning scar and been referred to as The Boy Who Lived.) Herstmonceux Castle was home to some of the best times I had in undergrad.

Interestingly, UBC law school, like others, offers the castle as an exchange alternative. Naturally I'd recommend it for anyone who likes travelling England and not immediately averse to Renaissance fairs.

Furthermore, I'd offer the same sage advice I learned whilst abroad: avoid the venison sausages, (and unless you like a culinary texture approaching leather, avoid sausages entirely), there's a reason it's called a moat and not a pool, and finally, don't take too long in British showers. English bathroom lights are on a motion sensor/timer and while cleanliness is next to godliness, too much is next to blindness.

I did briefly consider doing another exchange while at law school, perhaps some Antipodean institution, or a Scandinavian university, but as one who recently lived/survived in Kingston, Vancouver is like a vacation in itself.

(Any of you castle folks read this blog? Besides you AB, I know you read this religiously).