Monthly Archives: March 2016

The Fatal Flaws in Operation Barbarossa 1941

Posted on March 31, 2016 by odeboyz

“With Russia* smashed, Britain’s last hope would be shattered….. If we start in May 1941, we would have five months to finish the job.”** Adolf Hitler 31st July 1940 The German High Command ought to have opposed Hitler’s cherished ambition … Continue reading →

Posted in War | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

A Removal from Terry Street

Posted on March 29, 2016 by odeboyz

On a squeaking cart, they push the usual stuff, A mattress, bed ends, cups, carpets, chairs, Four paperback westerns. Two whistling youths In surplus US Army battle-jackets Remove their sister’s goods. Her husband Follows, carrying on his shoulders the son … Continue reading →

Posted in Poetry | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Attlee* reviews Field Marshall Lord Montgomery’s** Autobiography

Posted on March 29, 2016 by odeboyz

“Some of the difficulties he gave his colleagues and superiors were due not so much to a profound intellectual disagreement with their views as, I think, to the fact that occasionally he could, and did, behave almost as a child…even … Continue reading →

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Compounded Stupidity

Posted on March 24, 2016 by odeboyz

About fifteen years ago the Council decided that they would create a structural repairs contract as well as one for external decoration for our three tower blocks which we manage on their behalf. Unfortunately, they didn’t bother to consult with … Continue reading →

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A pen portrait of Winston Churchill

Posted on March 22, 2016 by odeboyz

The prime minister was undoubtedly born too late. By nature he is an adventurist on an historical scale, strong-willed and resolute, a romantic of British Imperialism and war. Had he lived in previous centuries, he would have been a match … Continue reading →

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Not Before Time

Posted on March 21, 2016 by odeboyz

A nasty vicious Minister Has chosen the option, to quit Mostly to hurt his former pals In retirement, he will still be a nasty vicious git. The poor should rejoice, his departure The poor were his target and shame As … Continue reading →

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Gender reversal in Thriller Writing: an experiment*

Posted on March 19, 2016 by odeboyz

The objectification of women is commonplace in British society. Thriller novels do more than that. Many, very many, storylines revolve round predatory men, sadism and vulnerable women. Indeed sadism is so commonplace that it’s startling when passages are re-written with … Continue reading →

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Accidental Murder

Posted on March 17, 2016 by odeboyz

The knife was too long I didn’t know his heart was there I am innocent. (Chris)

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Frankie Dettori and Rafa Benitez: Character and Genius

Posted on March 17, 2016 by odeboyz

Frankie Dettori “Many a sportsman would baulk at being asked for an encore after a career-crowning achievement (winning the Epsom Derby) but Frankie Dettori (44) proved his professionalism by travelling 20 miles down the road for the 7:30 at Lingfield’s … Continue reading →

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Better Dream

Posted on March 10, 2016 by odeboyz

Prior to the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) tradesmen like me, would regularly work at weekends or night-time after our days normal work. This was universally recognised as “custom and practice” and although it was appreciated that working … Continue reading →

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