Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne (Illustrations by E.H. Shepard) is the first book I remember having read to me. Every character rings true, every scene feels right. As a child I dragged my stuffed animal behind me just like Christopher Robin did his, and perfectly understood the “thump, thump, thump” of Winnie ther Pooh’s head on the stairs.One of my most prized possessions is a copy of “Winnie ille Pu” given to me by my dad when he was teaching me Latin. I also love the excellent translation into German by the brilliant Harry Rowohlt. And if you haven’t read The Tao of Pooh, well, what are you waiting for? — On the other hand, I can’t relate to the boneless, squishy Pooh of the Disney films. Oh well. To each his own.
My favorite Pooh quotes:
“It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn’t use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like ‘What about lunch?'”
“Don’t underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can’t hear, and not bothering.”
“Those who are clever, who have a Brain, never understand anything.”
“Before beginning a Hunt, it is wise to ask someone what you are looking for before you begin looking for it.”
Isn’t it funny how a bear likes honey?
Buzz buzz buzz
I wonder why he does.
“Tigger is all right really,” said Piglet lazily.
“Of course he is,” said Christopher Robin.
“Everybody is really,” said Pooh. “That’s what I think,” said Pooh.
“But I don’t suppose I’m right,” he said.
“Of course you are,” said Christopher Robin.
NOTE:
I’ll be away for a week, but back for Christmas. I’m sorry if your first-time comments don’t appear right away, or if your comments don’t get a prompt response. I’ll answer when I get back. The advent calendar will continue to appear thanks to the magic of WordPress.
