Monday 29 August 2016

Guests In The Old Phoenix

Poul Anderson, A Midsummer Tempest, Chapter xii, p. 99.

The guests introduce themselves:

Valeria Matuchek from the United States of America;

Holger Carlsen of Denmark;

Rupert of the Rhine Palatinate, nephew of Charles I, grandson of King James VI of Scotland/I of England and of Queen Anne who had been a Danish princess (Rupert adds that England and Scotland have been friendly with Denmark at least since Hamlet).

Thus, we recognize:

Valeria and Holger from previous novels by Anderson;
Rupert and his royal relatives from history;
Hamlet from Shakespeare.

We realize that reality is turning itself inside out for our enjoyment and edification.

1 comment:

Sean M. Brooks said...

Kaor, Paul!

And Poul Anderson liked Prince Rupert! I'm not sure if I still have it, but one issue of the MAGAZINE OF SCIENCE FICTION AND FANTASY included a letter from Anderson defending Rupert from various attacks or criticisms.

Sean