The incorruptible and unblemishedly fair judges have judged. In a booklined chamber at national review’s offices, sequestered from the outside world, they have sat and pondered the many hundreds of entries from the “Delectations” competition on party and dinnertable conversation starters. Ravaged by decision-making, torn asunder by the desire to be just, they nevertheless decided on three winners and awarded a booby prize.
It was not easy. Before announcing the finalists, let me say something about the competition and contestants in general. The neatness of the entries was exceptional, even when handwritten, although the majority was very competently typed. The manners of the contestants were also exemplary. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to the people who said such nice things about the “Delectations” column. Entries arrived from all over the United States (one even from England), and taught me a lesson in geography. As with previous “Delectations” competitions, more men than women entered, though the number of female contestants has markedly increased. Contestants were well informed and the majority of them seriously inclined, demonstrating a penchant for learned questions and a love of long words. Obviously, most had spent hours considering their entries. There were many multiple entries, and quite a number were so erudite that they left me speechless. It is obvious that national review’s readers live in high-minded circles, and that their partyconversation partners have demanding conversational standards. However, quite a few contestants did not read the rules carefully enough and either sent one or two entries only or mailed them too late. Some tried to be cute about their tardiness, but alas, cuteness did not avail them. (It seldom does unless you are 17 and very pretty.)
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