I am an expatriate British academic, now resident in the USA. Since I felt the need to have a personal space for self-expression that was separate from my professional activities even if I was still using those skills, I launched this blog as a vehicle for my writings and reflections without having them appear under my own name or professional title. On the blog you will (eventually) find satires, polemics, philosophically infused essays, reflections on current affairs, attempts to critique and demystify some of the con-tricks and follies of our times, and various related odds and ends that I may wish to express. I hope that you may be entertained, and perhaps may find some items helpful or illuminating.

Why “Intrepid Dachshund”?

Firstly, it is partly a tribute to my much loved dachshund who passed away a couple of years ago. Secondly, there are many of her dachshund traits that I aspire to manifest in the blog. For instance:

Dachshunds are independent minded. They will do things their own way, and though loyal to those closest to them, they always have distinctive personalities that are very much their own.

Dachshunds are inquisitive. They have an interest in novelty, an appetite for new knowledge and experiences, and an enthusiasm for life.

Dachshunds sniff things out, and are determined diggers. They smell what’s hidden, burrow into unpromising ground tirelessly when they think something interesting may be unearthed, and they don’t give up easily.

Dachshunds are funny. Slightly comical even in shape, dachshunds are playful, enjoy tricks and games, will often try to outwit other dogs and humans, and show plenty of evidence of having a generous sense of humour.

Dachshunds are brave battlers. Originally bred to go down badger setts and keep the badger fighting while hunters above dig out the animal, they don’t fear asserting themselves with those who are bigger and more powerful, and will defend whoever and whatever they care about.

Dachshunds are kind. If they detect hurt or threat towards those to whom they are attached, they will give every support and defence that they can, and they protect the vulnerable.

If you’ve never made the acquaintance of a dachshund, you’re missing out! I doubt I can live up to the heritage, but welcome to the blog in which I’ll try.