Ptarmigan and Psillies

Earlier this year Penguin Random House (PRH) reprinted a couple of books by PG Wodehouse redacting some words in general use when the books were written but that have now become offensive to some people. Not to me, as it happens.

The P G Wodehouse Society (UK) dealt with the matter with Jeevesian sang froid.

“Among our membership there will be a wide range of views, many strongly held, about the proposed changes and, as among the general public, I see no consensus. What is more, anyone who has commented has done so in a vacuum since I know of no one who has seen the proposed changes. From what I read it is unlikely they will be extensive, for Wodehouse was never one knowingly to offend his readers and perhaps only two of his many books will be affected. Our president, Alexander Armstrong, explained this but his comments were, unfairly in my view, characterised as accepting or even supporting the changes. This is not his, my or the Society’s position. What I say is ‘Read Wodehouse’; his timeless humour is the ideal respite when, as on this occasion, discussion has generated more heat than light.” (Tim Andrew, Chairman, The P G Wodehouse Society (UK).)

PRH, keen to introduce new readers to Wodehouse and serve up some tasty morsels to delight aficionados have compiled, with help from the Society’s Wodehouse expert, Tony Ring, another anthology of short stories. Like Jeeves and the Yule-Tide Spirit and Other Stories (2014) it is timed to appeal to aunts looking for suitable Christmas presents for grandchildren, nephews and nieces and even if the stories are familiar to Wodehouse fans, let’s face it, we can never have enough Wodehouse.

PRH, so sensitive about offensive words used by Wodehouse and other authors about a century ago, obviously know the Wodehouse canon inside out.

“A joyous romp through a year of Wodehouse’s most treasured stories, month by month. The ultimate gift for anyone who needs cheering throughout the year. All of his treasured characters are here, Jeeves, Smith and, of course, the Empress of Blandings herself.” (Penguin.co.uk)

That such a reputable publishing house should publish such an egregious error staggers me and no doubt will stagger humanity. They should concentrate on getting the P word right before worrying about the N word.

PS PRH have corrected their mistake.