
Discussing Wittgenstein
Ann Drysdale(Author)
Cinnamon Press
Published on 13. May 2009
Book
Paperback/Softback
128 pages
978-1-905614-68-4 (ISBN)
Description
Discussing Wittgenstein picks up the story of Philip Grey and Ann Drysdale after their near death-bed marriage and Philip's return home. It is the end of a remarkable love story, but it is also much more; a tender, poignant testimony to how personal mythologies are built and survive. -- Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru
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
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Blaenau Ffestiniog
United Kingdom
Dimensions
Height: 216 mm
Width: 140 mm
ISBN-13
978-1-905614-68-4 (9781905614684)
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Schweitzer Classification