Master and Commander

Last night I began a new book, the audio version of Patrick O’Brian’s Master and Commander read by Simon Vance. Audiobooks are rare for me. In fact, I don’t know that I’ve ever listened to a whole book on tape or cd. I simply went this route because I’ve recently learned to knit, and the advantages are obvious. I couldn’t help thinking that my British friend Louise might enjoy it for the pure Englishness of it. I understand why my friend Sophia’s father likes it. It pays just as careful attention to the music of the time as it does the nautical details, and he must like that the ship’s name is “Sophie.” I like that it’s challenging me in the first 8 tracks and has sent me to my dictionary. Truckling? According to my Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, “truckle” is an intransitive verb dating from 1667 that means “to act in a subservient manner or to submit.” I’ve just begun this book, but, so far, I’m being both entertained and edified, which are two of my friend Don's criteria for reading a book. Here’s a case where I can wholeheartedly recommend the film version of the book, and the soundtrack is a pleasure, too.