A real gem from Ashok Bhatia.
Napoleon, had he been around in our times, would have been amused upon discovering the high level of influence he exerts over the residents of Plumsville. Much like a spiritual sun which shines with equal benevolence on all, his leadership traits and planning skills provide inspiration to almost all the characters we come across in the narratives dished out by Plum. Even in defeat and disorderly retreat, he does not fail to provide succour to a tormented soul. His soft power extends to a wide variety of situations and continues to enthuse many amongst us.
When it comes to handling a difficult task, Napoleon provides the inspiration. With him around, failure is not an option. When irate nerve specialists have to be confronted, his skills in planning wars come in handy.
Members of the so-called sterner sex shudder at the prospect of being expected to carve out a Napoleonic career…
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It is worth noting that George Orwell turned the Emperor Napoleon into a pig. The Empress of Blandings was wielding a certain amount of soft power before that.
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What Ho, Noel. I do like Orwell’s stuff. He gets to the nub of things rather well, but I wish he had chosen to smear some other animal. The poor pig gets too much bad press already.
(I’ve just read your piece in the latest Wooster Sauce, by the way — topping stuff).
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