Author Archives: Andreas Moser
Book Markets in the Middle East
In Iraq, booksellers leave the books at the side of the road overnight, thinking: “Readers don’t steal, and thieves don’t read.” That reminds me of an episode during my first visit to Iran. In a used-book shop, I found so … Continue reading
“Death in Venice”
… and there goes Gustav von Aschenbach: “Death in Venice“ is not my favorite book by Thomas Mann, but he is one of my most favorite authors. I have met a few people who have dismissed Thomas Mann as a writer … Continue reading
The advice Trump got from Abbas
Abbas: Hey, Mr President, you know when I had my last election? Trump: Um, um, I am not so good with history. I’ll have to ask Stephen. Abbas: I’ll tell you. I was elected in 2005. Trump: And you’re still in … Continue reading
Documentary “Cuba – Fatherland or Death”
I have already expressed my surprise about how lightly Cuba gets off in international public opinion. But recently, I have been shocked again by how many people can travel to Cuba for a week or two and describe everything as beautiful, … Continue reading
Going on a Cruise again
For my imminent return to Europe, I have, in line with my romantic and old-fashioned disposition, chosen the steamship over the plane. Thus, I will be cruising the Caribbean and the Atlantic for two weeks, leaving from Cartagena in Colombia on … Continue reading
Random Thoughts (13)
Where exactly is the line between the Near East, the Middle East and the Far East? I am so old-school, when I am in a remote location, I miss newspapers more than the internet. I have never received as many … Continue reading
Germany 1945-1949
These two films illustrate – with quite drastic footage, you are warned – what the Allied powers thought of Germany immediately after the end of World War II. They did see, correctly in my view, a continuity of German militarism … Continue reading
Romania in Paintings by David Croitor
Yes, Romania really looks that romantic. In all seasons. (All images taken from the website of David Croitor, where you can find much more.)
Did you notice the irony? (21) NRA
When Donald Trump will speak at the annual meeting of the NRA, surely talking about the 2nd Amendment, attendees will have to leave their firearms outside. And I thought more guns were supposed to make every place safer.
Praise the Lord with your Spray Can!
In Sicily, even the graffiti sprayers are religious. (Seen behind the Cathedral in Palermo, Sicily.)
The Happy Hermit 