Our Jane’s opening line of Pride and Prejudice is universally acknowledged as one of the most memorable in literature, but an article in today’s Guardian provides some pretty good competition:

George Bush makes an unlikely Mr Darcy.

(Oh Most Wonderful Editrix, can I please have Dorothy and a pot of hot tea? My nerves aren’t quite up to this particular comparison!)
The author of this article goes on to liken diplomatic relations between the United States, the EU, and NATO to one of Jane’s “English country dances,” and makes a reasonable, if not believable, case for President Bush resembling our own Mr. D. Lizzy, who isn’t one to be easily overlooked, gets the last word:

But after the ball, many differences will remain. As Elizabeth Bennett knew, it takes more than a twirl to build a lasting relationship.

What a Lizzy-esque way to finish things off!

An English professor at Butler University in Indianapolis is profiled in the student newspaper, including words of wisdom about studying literature in general and Jane Austen’s work in particular:

As a final note, Professor Hofstetter would like to forward some advice to all of the students of Butler University. “Take your English courses very seriously. Perhaps you may not thoroughly enjoy Jane Austen, but be aware that the skill it takes to analyze such texts goes beyond appreciating great literature. Such critical thinking skills are valued in every occupation.”

We say: Huzzah for the liberal arts!

The stage production of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE that has been traveling the U.K. since last year makes its latest landfall at the Bradford Alhambra through Saturday, February 26. Scotsman.com has an article about John Leslie’s 40th birthday today, which the former party boy plans to spend quietly with his fellow cast members, though he has plans for something more elaborate later:

“I am going to have probably a summer party, maybe in a castle or with a marquee. I want something over the top and black-tie. I want to make it an event to remember. I know reaching 40 is quite symbolic, but I am quite positive about it. In terms of life-changing events, other events have changed life for me.”

Did we mention it is a slow news week?

Jane Austen’s famous, timeless opening sentence of Pride and Prejudice has been coopted for, of all things, an article about AMERICAN IDOL.

I believe it was Jane Austen who once observed that it is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good voice, must be in want of an “American Idol” crown. So it is that 12 men gather on Monday (Feb. 21) night to begin the process of redeeming their gender after the disgraceful third season showing.

For the record, we’re cheering for Anthony.