“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things” Winston Churchill
Constructive criticism helps the world move forward. Tolerance of it one of the fundamental tenets of democracy. Explains why North Korea remains stuck in the dark ages. And where Azerbaijan will be going once the oil runs out.
“Tell me what I need to know, not what I want to hear” Best Kroner, Norwegian philosopher
Put another way, there’s always room for improvement. Scope to make things better. And so it goes with the blog. I’d asked a few close friends to offer some candid thoughts. Be frank I said. I’m pretty thicked-skinned. Difficult to offend. And in China. Besides, in posing the question, I must surely think the content could in some way be improved. Tell me what I need to know. Not what you think I want to hear.
And the results? A mixed bag, part content, part style. More photos and video clips. Especially of people. And the scenery. Help better explain the geography. Factual pieces. More humour. Quotations. Short sentences. The odd word. Gritiness. Easier to scan. I’ll try my best.
[Please feel free to comment on individual posts. Likes or dislikes. So long as what you write does not contravene English law, isn’t offensive to others or unsuitable for minors, your submissions will be warmly welcomed. Freedom of expression begins at home]
Poor Churchill! If only he had applied his sharp criticism to his own health, no doubt would he have stopped smoking and drinking and – who knows – maybe would he have been keen enough not to be fooled by Stalin all the time during and at the end of WW2. (sorry for such a style – not exactly “Short sentences” as you promise, Ken)
Keep cycling n’ thinking. fran
Funny you should mention Stalin – visited his birthplace in Georgia earlier this year – almost within sight of the Russian occupying forces! Am waiting to see who queries the Norwegian philosopher I also quoted… do like anagrams…. Ken