you asked for it

omg, i saw "Johnah McPalin" and was like, wait, i don't remember one of her kids being named Johnah

Ottawa Bashing

The elite of Ottawa and the rest of the country are 'mediocre' and wouldn't know a good idea if served one at Tim Hortons.

These and many other insults, ruminations and quick-fix solutions to long-standing problems are contained in Mr. Saul's newest book, A Fair Country: Telling Truths About Canada. Mr. Saul is often described as one of the leading intellectuals of Canada, in large part because of his internationally celebrated books commenting on contemporary society.

Outside Canada, Mr. Saul is held in high esteem in many European countries, especially France.

The main thesis of A Fair Country, published by Viking Canada, is that Canada is really a "Métis civilization." Our natural inclinations, whether in family life, art or military adventures, are to do things the "aboriginal" way, the homegrown way, but our elites always feel they have to import ideas from Britain, France, the United States or elsewhere. Consequently, we have become a colonial-minded country of anti-intellectual mediocrity.

best band ever?

I go back and forth: Beatles or R.E.M.? I'm watching A Hard Day's Night so the edge goes to the Beatles for their wit and sheer exuberance but I'm also reading Matthew Perpetua's site where he discusses, and I mean discusses, every single R.E.M. track. It's great because he really fleshes all the meanings out. I'm not a student of the "they don't mean anything" school. I think the songs mostly have a general theme or direction but the ambiguity of the lyrics allows you to connect your own experiences. So...R.E.M. if I'm evaluating their body or work, but Beatles for their influence on the world? I will probably never resolve this.

Of course, I'm also ignoring about 20 other bands that could vie for the title.

Among solo artists I have no doubt: Bob Dylan.

538 on what happens if the electoral college is tied

538 is quickly becoming my ultimate election resource. I know I shouldn't, but with Obama trailing (so very slightly!) in the polls, I've been worrying. If the electoral college is a tie (269 to 269), the vote goes to the House where each state gets one vote. Thankfully, Dems have an edge in state delegations!