The Misanthrope’s Corner

DEAR Gentle Readers: I’ve resolved to write this column without using the word “last” because nowadays it is tied up with that insufferable cliché, “I want to spend more time with my family.” The only way to avoid it is to say what I have to say the NR way: This is my l**t column.

It shouldn’t come as a complete surprise. I’ve been dropping hints about discarding my files and sorting my notebooks and journals. When writers start fiddling with their “literary papers,” you know something is up. Another hint was my recent tribute to Aunt Ellen. I’ve long meant to write it and wanted to be sure to get it in before I left.

About the Author

Florence King

Florence King was a contributing editor of National Review.

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DEAR Gentle Readers: I’ve resolved to write this column without using the word “last” because nowadays it is tied up with that insufferable cliché, “I want to spend more time with my family.” The only way to avoid it is to say what I have to say the NR way: This is my l**t column.

It shouldn’t come as a complete surprise. I’ve been dropping hints about discarding my files and sorting my notebooks and journals. When writers start fiddling with their “literary papers,” you know something is up. Another hint was my recent tribute to Aunt Ellen. I’ve long meant to write it and wanted to be sure to get it in before I left.