Book Review: When the World Spoke French

The book, When the World Spoke French, written by Marc Fumaroli and translated from French to English by Richard Howard, is well written and engaging. Each chapter of the book covers a different eighteenth century Enlightenment writer. These brief biographies encompass a wide number of individuals,such as,Francesco Algarottias well as perhaps lesser know lights including Lugi Riccoboni.  Along with the biography is a sample of writing.  These writings are quite often personal letters, and portions of essays.  Many of the writers were not in fact French, but wrote in French and where highly influenced what was happening in France.  

Anyone who is interested in eighteenth century history should read Fumaroli's book.  I appreciated finding out more about what was taking place in the rest of the world while America was stirring towards Revolution.  It really put things into perspective.  Fumaroli's writing style makes the people in the book come alive.  The adding together of all these individuals and their writing make for a sweep through European history that is far more interesting than the typical history book.

Book Review: Polo in the United States: a History

 Polo in the United States: a History by Horace A. Laffaye is precisely as explained by the title.  The book is divided into chapters covering the various eras, geographic locations, polo in art, indoor polo, and current events in polo.  The smaller sections within each chapter describe specifics.  Early history of polo section of this book typically list places, names of founders, and may contain a brief description of the polo field or clubhouse.  Some of the sections are lightened by brief anecdotes.

This book is certainly not for the polo virgin.  There is no explanations of rules, play, etc., I am not even sure how big the field should be.  While I found this book quite a slog to read, polo fans would doubtless find it more interesting.  Laffaye's book makes for good reference material for someone interested in quick facts about various players and the founding of clubs. 

Book Review: A Triumph of of Words The Lexical Funk

The self published book The Lexical Funk by Daniel Clausen consists of a collection of short stories interspersed with short interludes.  The stories may be described as fantasy, but not quite.  Clausen's characters are introspective and apt to make the reader uncomfortable, both because their thoughts are disturbing, and because on some level they may strike close to home.  The stories are not pleasant or happy.  The interludes between the stories are biographical in nature, and I found them more readable than the stories themselves. The book is an interesting read, but not for those who prefer reading as a form of light entertainment.