Links, and a Meme

To get the politics out of the way first: not having been able to watch the debate itself, I was glad to find both a transcript of the real thing and a translation into snark, the later being immensly entertaining, and, when I compared individual points, amazingly faithful, though I wish the snark version were the genuine thing. I mean, between:

( Actual transcript quote )

and ( snark version quote )

which would you prefer?


Speaking of snark, hobsonphile wrote a great essay on Londo/G'Kar for ship_manifesto. If you, oh faithful reader of these ramblings, have ever wondered why I'm all agog over two middle-aged aliens, look it up.

Also: grabbed from skywaterblue, the "five fictional people I'd love to have dinner with" meme. Which, btw, automatically excludes some of my fannish loves like Avon (would think I'm a waste of his time), Bester (maybe ditto; also, I'm a mundane), Magneto (definitely ditto; and with the non-mutant thing...), or Darla (what, do you think I'm suicidal?).

1) Jean-Luc Picard. He'd provide intelligent conversation in a wonderful voice, and could placate waiters frustrated by the fact I don't drink alcohol by a little chat on wine.

2) Londo Mollari. Yes, you're all so surprised. Mind you, depending which point in Londo's life this is, this could either end with him passing out on the table or with me getting poisoned by a political enemy who is trying to get at Londo, but hey - witty conversation and great charm before that would make it worth it. And a rich variety of food would be guaranteed. (Londo not being one for a diet.)

3) Jadzia Dax. Because as opposed to some other fictional characters I love, she'd make me lose my nervousness very soon (she's good at that), she'd know all the menus and a lot more besides, and she's be an inexhaustible source of stories.

4) Bilbo Baggins. No, not Frodo or Sam, or Merry or Pippin, Bilbo. I wouldn't go all protective on him, knowing he's not destined for the Überangst, and would just enjoy the good company. Okay, him smoking would be a downside, but hey, it's just for one evening. Also, he'd help with the dishes afterwards.

5) Mr. Wednesday, aka Odin. I'd have to pay attention so he doesn't con me into anything, but again, great conversation and much charm.