Marriage, like spinach and opera, was something I had never thought I would like. - Jasper Fforde

About ten degrees upslope of Fiction, I could see our nearest neighbor: Artistic Criticism. It was an exceptionally beautiful island, yet deeply troubled, confused and suffused with a blanketing layer of almost impenetrable bullshit.

The numbers were too great for HiberTech to hide what had happened. As it was, well-engineered corporate surprise, orchestrated bafflement, faux delight, suitable soul-searching and feigned contrition won the day.

"Look here, St. Zvlkx," said Volescamper as they walked towards the marquee for tea and scones, "what was the thirteenth century like?"
"The Mayor wants to know what the thirteenth century was like—and no lip, sunshine."
"Filthy, damp, disease-ridden and pestilential."
"He said it was like London, Your Grace."