what is free speech?

Remember the recent story on Four Corners about how our top environmental and climate scientists have all been threatened by our glorious government not to speak out about their findings? The scientists are furious because they stand to lose their jobs and research funding if they talk to people about their work. Most of them, logically, consider that the research is of paramount importance and want to continue their vital work monitoring the weather systems, figuring that governments don't last forever (even though Howard's feels like it has).

Well, it is now happening in Canada too. Dr Mark Tushingham, a scientist working for Environment Canada has been ordered by their Minister For the Environment, Rona Ambrose to cancel his talks with the press. Read more on cpolk's LJ at http://cpolk.livejournal.com/162951.html

Seems most of the "free" world is shooting the messenger and censoring bad news now.
Hmmm... what does that remind me of?

Breakfast at Tiffany's

I read Breakfast at Tiffany's today.
What an amazing story!

The movie, though beautiful is, of course, a pale shadow of Truman Capote's tantalising bittersweet story.

I love to read such brilliant works, but I hate the way they make me realise what a hopeless artist I am. [sigh]