I was lucky in being exposed to the fine arts from childhood. Both of our parents were readers and we children followed them. My grammar school (USA high school equivalent) offered an extraordinarily rich mix of non-curricular events. As a student, I rejected some opportunities, as I later found out. We had the Juilliard Quartet to play for us and many speakers, such as the president of the Bank of England, came to us.

Reading is still a favourite form; poetry most especially. It’s grand to be able to roll some of Shakespeare’s mighty phrases through my head or to muse on Keat’s short life. I’ve written down some of my companions for you to enjoy.

Music is always with me; from Bach to Willie Nelson; from Verdi to Barefoot; not all genres, to be sure, but, an eclectic mix. Each one evokes emotions of its own.