Saint George's Day

Juan Cole Has a Modest Proposal

In Barcelona they celebrate St. George's day by giving a rose to women, who then give their man a book. The reasoning, which makes perfect Catalonian sense, is to have the rose given because a drop of the dragon's spilled blood sprouted up into a red rose. Then, since Cervantes was Catalan, it just made good Spanish sense.

I have no objection to the use of St. George. Using the Knight of Knowledge to slay the Dragon of Ignorance is an attractive proposal.

Next April 23rd I will be giving books and roses. You are all invited to join me.

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