My Impromptus column today has a curious heading: “In search of isolationists, &c.” As I explain, I have heard a lot about isolationists, but I don’t think I’ve ever met one — a true one, I mean. I have met other types, who are sometimes mislabeled “isolationist.” My column also touches on higher ed, music, and, of course, the Detroit Lions.
Let’s have some mail. A reader writes,
Hi, Jay,
Your article about the podcast with Russell Moore reminded me of something I heard after the Pin Stripe Bowl: Minnesota vs. Syracuse. A post-game radio show was discussing the success of P.J. Fleck, the Minnesota coach. One person said, “He has a healthy respect for the Lord.”
I had not heard that statement uttered in 40-plus years, but thought you might like it.
I do!
Another reader writes,
Jay,
I listened to your podcast with Russell Moore and enjoyed it very much. I particularly enjoyed hearing about his love of older country music. You told him you’d listen to some Hank Williams songs. Given the musical interests you usually discuss, I’m not sure whether they’re up your alley.
Over the course of my life, I’ve come to love Hank Williams songs, but not generally when they’re sung by him. (I find the same with Bob Dylan, where I often prefer cover versions to the originals.) There are many great covers of many Hank Williams songs, by everyone from Johnny Cash to Norah Jones to Al Green (who comes from my hometown of Grand Rapids).
Also — put in a word with your buddy Jim to stick around at Michigan.
That last line is a reference to college football.
Our reader’s letter reminded me of something, which may amuse you, if it doesn’t outrage you: I never realized that “Desperado” was a great song until I heard a Muzak version of it in a hotel lobby. (Linda Ronstadt also does a wonderful cover, as you know.)
Finally,
Jay, several months ago I wrote you a letter that you published about my wife’s Alzheimer’s and how our retirement plans changed from hikes here and there in Europe to simply enjoying the birds visiting our backyard feeders.
Yesterday Marie passed away from complications of her Alzheimer’s. I was at her side. The tributes from friends, family, and the many students she taught as an art teacher have been flowing in, and the common denominator, aside from her creativity and teaching skills, is her goodness and gentleness — so much so that I have come to believe that what people need most in others is what she embodied: goodness and gentleness. I have been privileged to witness that truth up close. She will be greatly missed.