Life / Polish authors, books & literature. [95]

Yes, I'm aware of his somewhat 'muddled' history. I think it is important for people to be aware of this when reading Kosinski, however, a good book is a good book. It's crucial people do not mistake it for an account of Holocaust survival (and I'm sure many people unfortunately have). I do not have my copy at hand, but I'd be certain on the sleeve notes it's described as 'fiction', it certainly appears in 'fiction' sections of book stores as opposed to 'history'.

Part of Kosinki's magic, I believe, lay in his ability to intertwine truth with fiction, leaving the reader to guess which was which. A great writer of stories, definitely, but never to be confused with a historian.

Life / Polish authors, books & literature. [95]

Kapuszcinski (sp?) has done some marvellous works, and while I've only read one book of Borowski's (This way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentleman), I think it stands out as one of most haunting works that covers the war. On a far less intense note, I've also recently discovered the joys of Jerzy Kosinski. Ok, some of his work reads like the sort of Clancy/Brown/Garland garbage you find in an airport store, but others - for instance Blind Date, Being There and Painted Bird - should be rated as little less than champion reading.

I've also recently purcahsed some Dorota Maslowska, who according to the sleeve note is the Polish Irvine Welsh. Well, so far I'm disappointed in her, but shall strive to persevere.

UK, Ireland / What English food would you serve a Pole? [83]

stargazy pie, though if cooking in Poland substitute the pilchards for herring

excellent recipe here: cornishlight.co.uk/fish-recipe.htm