In Memoriam.

For those of you with RSS, I’d suggest stopping by the store instead of using the binocs to peak in through the front window. Trip has been working his magic again.

I might have gone for a eulogy (I’m always up for a good speech), but propriety dictates it be done by someone closer to the departed. Al has taken care of it most admirably and freed the rest of us to stand near the casket of Guinness & Poker, tell stories, enjoy the refreshments, and eat the homemade cheese platters.

What I’ve been thinking about since learning the news is that perhaps the often untapped advantage in creating a perception lies in the opportunity to harmlessly misdirect, and offer people something very hard to find in these ultramodern times: a genuine surprise.

I wonder if aside from accolades and traffic, most of this boils down to drinks in Vegas with strangers who are part admirers, part collaborators in what Vonnegut calls a granfalloon. Some may look at the use of granfalloon instead of its nobler cousin, the karass and wonder if an insult, however oblique, is intended. And the truth of it is quite the contrary. Human beings need association – it’s good for the soul. And even if association pins on something as fabricated as a mutual love of cards and words in play, it has been a worthy association. There’s just something good natured about this sphere, and I think a great deal of it draws back to the people who started this ball rolling and have encouraged others to participate along the way.

In that regards G&P could have done no better. Between it and Tao, many, many nights on call were passed happily poring through archives and following links to other interesting takes on this universe in a bubble.

It's with a fond wave I say farewell to G&P, understanding the progenitor is still around doing his own inimitable thing.

Good on ya, Iggy, and a sincere thanks.