Jacob Delafon is surprised to read of ancient astronomers who "defied Time".

Later he realizes it is a misprint for deified.

(from The Real Subject by Keith Waldrop)

*

This has just come in the post. I have only read four pages & already laughed out loud five times (once for the sheer brilliance of the idea - what a way to arrange material!).

It is my absolute All Time Favourite Book This Tuesday.

In a better, happier, more just world it would be in the windows of every bookshop in the kingdom. So there.