A Roving Cup Of Tea

A friend from England and I were discussing the merit of tea & coffee. He, very English, complained that he couldn't get a good cup of tea just about anywhere in Spain. This reminded me of Felicity Lott, the great British soprano, when she was giving a recital in the legendary opera house & prestigious theatre, the 'Gran Teatre del Liceu'. Amongst the many write-up in the media highly praising her performance, most also included a brief biographical account of her life and artistic achievements was one I read, describing her as: "... mas inglesa que la abadía de Westminster; es una taza de te ambulante ...", translated it means: "... more English than the Westminster Abby; she is an itinerant (roving, wandering) cup of tea ...'.   I found that expression of the journalist very amusing. This example of identification of nationality has been used since time immemorial but, at times, it might escape somebody's notice, or be found beyond his understanding, thus leading to certain perplexity, unless the listener or reader is well acquainted with the particular country referred to and it's customs of the people.       Like the British themselves accept quite happily the reference to their country as a nation of tea drinkers (this accolade is shared by 'Chinese and Indians), the Spanish are associated with Paella or flamenco dancing; the Argentineans with Tango; The Chinese with fried rice or sweet and sour pork; the Russians with Vodka; even most of the Irish themselves seem to enjoy jokes about them as being drunkards or foolish. The Scots generally do not feel insulted being connected with whiskey, Haggis, the kilt, or the reputation, deserved or not, of being misers. Alas, not everybody nor always!     In one of my old Blogs, I remember having written something similar on this theme, mentioning that the Scots were labelled as mean, tight fisted. Well I didn't invent this myth or rumour or any such mean fun at the cost of others, I merely related the free running timeless joke, the kind I would tell to any of my Scottish friends face to face. But, a fellow Blogger, a Scot of course, flew off the handle writing me endless messages accusing me of saying nasty things about the Scots!       In fact I love the Scots, at least all those I have in some way been associated or in contact with, except one whom I sent to hell recently. In fact I have written more than one Blog praising their character and merits , and expressing my respect. But no, this guy refused to open his mind or eyes to see the truth. Another characteristic often associated with the Scots, blind stubbornness.       No doubt, if the same guy should happen to read this Blog, he might well launch at me another attack. Who knows, it might be his only fun in life. Who am I to deny him that?     Tags: Tea,NationalityStrait,Scot