The single remaining dialogue between Saracoglu and Luisa is comparatively inoffensive although the Governor's attention remains focused on himself:
"He wondered if his fur cap hid his baldness or reminded her of it. Maybe he should break down and get a scalp job." (pp. 655-656)
"...he was pleased to note that he spoke firmly and maintained his second-best smile." (p. 658)
Always an act...
When Luisa offers to name a son after him:
"'Why, I would be honored beyond anything the Emperor could hang on this downward-sloping chest of mine,' he said automatically." (p. 659)
I find the continual self-references quite irritating.
Saracoglu does say some things worthwhile about Avalon. First, that the planet might supply the Domain with most of its admirals - just as an Imperial planet (Aeneas or Kraken?) supplies many of the Empire's admirals.
Secondly:
"'...under pacific conditions, Avalon, a unique world uniquely situated, is sure to draw more than its share of trade - more important, brains, which follow opportunity. The effects of that are beyond foreseeing.'" (p. 657)
Several novels by Poul Anderson end by looking forward into a future beyond our ken.
2 comments:
Kaor, Paul!
My view remains that Anderson intended readers to be amused, not irritated, by Saracoglu's self references. That's how I reacted!
Ad astra! Sean
Sean,
This exchange might have brought more towards your point of view. I had to analyse the passages in detail.
Paul.
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