Discussing Wittgenstein

Reviews / Votes

With an arresting title and a cartoon on the front cover, I was intrigued to discover what this modestly sized book might contain. A sequel to an earlier title, Three-three,Two-two, five six, which I have not read, it brings us face to face with terminal illness, in this case colon cancer. But I hasten to add that is far from depressing. Ann Drysdale writes much of the time with a light touch, but also with sensitivity and candour.

She describes the final months which she spent with her husband, Philip, before he eventually died. Even when Philip was so ill, he enrolled at Caerleon College to undertake a Masters Degree in Archaeology, despite considerable lack of mobility and the use of a wheelchair. He also continued to read, and re-read Dickens when time allowed. Yes, he and Ann did discuss Wittgenstein, but certainly not in a spirit of intellectual snobbery which the cover cartoon might suggest. They also followed 'Star Trek' and spent a low-key holiday in Barry.

Ultimately the book is poignant and when I read Ann's address to the congregation at Gwent Crematorium I felt a lump in my throat. 'Most ceremonies in this place will be based on readings from the Good Book. But to Philip all books were good.'

When I began reading the book, I did wonder whether it might induce introspection for I, myself, am a cancer patient, but I need not have worried. Discussing Wittgenstein is an uplifting account of love, courage and loss. -- Dewi Roberts @ www.gwales.com