You articulated my thoughts on this so perfectly - I found Homeland to be such a compelling and intelligent series. As interesting as Carrie was, and some of the other players, my favorite character was Saul, for the reasons you stated. As cynical and bone-weary as he was, he never lost that kernel of hope that the world could be better. I loved that they didn’t make him perfect - he could be bombastic and holier-than-thou at times, but he was always deep down an ethical man who wanted to help.
Have you ever watched “The Americans”? If not, give that a try. It’s sort of the opposite of “Homeland” but every bit as compelling and nuanced, with flawed characters who are idealistic but starting to question their idealism.
The Ghost: The Secret Life of CIA Spymaster James Jesus Angleton by Jefferson Morley
Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA by Tim Weiner
The Sword and the Shield by Christopher Andrew and Vasilli Mitrokhin
I'm doing research for a proposal for a book that incorporates the world of opera, an unsolved murder, and Stalin-era KGB operations in the United States.
Mr Black, I’m not reading these columns for psychotherapy reasons, but that was an unintended effect of this article. I’ve spent the last 24 hours evaluating all the reasons you mentioned for Saul and that is me. I’m ready to retire but have not. Now I understand why. Thank you so much and you did this in less than the proverbial “45 minute hour” Je Sous, Saul.
I just dropped $40 for the annual to this, sir. I don’t do therapy, but it’s far cheaper. And hey, I’ve been lmao since the mid1990s at your comedy starting with The State, and have been a fan ever since. THEN I discover you’re a fantastically talented writer who shares my opinions on many things but is a funny, funny man. Thanks again for the career help.
All I had to do was ask for money?!? Jesus, I should have thought of this sooner. Thanks for subscribing. I will do my best to disappoint you as slowly as I possibly can.
(Krasinski. Kaczynski was the Unabomber.)
These daily writings posts op Eds by Mr. Black have become my favorite daily reading. Excellent job!
No comment, just wanted to say: love, love, love all these writings.
You articulated my thoughts on this so perfectly - I found Homeland to be such a compelling and intelligent series. As interesting as Carrie was, and some of the other players, my favorite character was Saul, for the reasons you stated. As cynical and bone-weary as he was, he never lost that kernel of hope that the world could be better. I loved that they didn’t make him perfect - he could be bombastic and holier-than-thou at times, but he was always deep down an ethical man who wanted to help.
Have you ever watched “The Americans”? If not, give that a try. It’s sort of the opposite of “Homeland” but every bit as compelling and nuanced, with flawed characters who are idealistic but starting to question their idealism.
Give British crime series a go, next level.
As someone currently deep into two nonfiction books about the CIA and one about the KGB, yes.
Which books? I am really into this genre and always looking for recommendations.
The Ghost: The Secret Life of CIA Spymaster James Jesus Angleton by Jefferson Morley
Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA by Tim Weiner
The Sword and the Shield by Christopher Andrew and Vasilli Mitrokhin
I'm doing research for a proposal for a book that incorporates the world of opera, an unsolved murder, and Stalin-era KGB operations in the United States.
Neat. May read one or all!
Saul Berenson is me, and I am Saul. You hit it square on the head, Mr. Black. This comment will self-destruct in 30 seconds.
Mr Black, I’m not reading these columns for psychotherapy reasons, but that was an unintended effect of this article. I’ve spent the last 24 hours evaluating all the reasons you mentioned for Saul and that is me. I’m ready to retire but have not. Now I understand why. Thank you so much and you did this in less than the proverbial “45 minute hour” Je Sous, Saul.
I think you owe me money?
I just dropped $40 for the annual to this, sir. I don’t do therapy, but it’s far cheaper. And hey, I’ve been lmao since the mid1990s at your comedy starting with The State, and have been a fan ever since. THEN I discover you’re a fantastically talented writer who shares my opinions on many things but is a funny, funny man. Thanks again for the career help.
All I had to do was ask for money?!? Jesus, I should have thought of this sooner. Thanks for subscribing. I will do my best to disappoint you as slowly as I possibly can.
You’re an excellent writer who suddenly made my life much better when your columns arrive. Much the same as when John Lurie began painting.
This was excellent—both the insight into Saul’s character and your writing—terrific wit and wordplay.