Let's Hear It For Elizabeth

Quote of the day:
“First and foremost, I am bound and determined to become cliche free.”
--Amber Lager

Historical event of the day:
On this day in 1558, Queen Elizabeth ascended to the British throne.

Way to celebrate:
Rent the excellent 1998 film "Elizabeth," starring Cate Blanchett and Geoffrey Rush. In addition to wonderful performances and production design, it is a superb depiction of political intrigue, and an entertaining study of good management.

I suppose you could round out the picture by going to see the current film "Queen." Helen Mirren is getting much attention for what must be a fine portrayal of Elizabeth II.

A couple of thoughts about "Are We One? Or Two?" from Louis Menand’s excellent book of essays "American Studies:"

“People with no common set of beliefs are vulnerable to ideologues peddling, if nothing else, coherence.”

“Politics is a battle against process, just as life is. It is a war against the tendency of things to take their natural course.”