Lempriere's Dictionary

[kelber at mindspring.com]

Just finished the amazing Lempriere's Dictionary (can't add the accent in plain text). It had been on my reading list for years, but I decided to plunge in and read it as per p-lister Tore Rye Andersen's recommendation (responding to the discussion about the Quincunx that Bekah and I and others had some weeks back).

That Norfolk was inspired by V, COL49 and GR is obvious: "'I am your rival,' said Mr. O'Tristero." References to preterite-elect, one-zero states, wackiness, obscurity, lists, incredible research and details, anachronisms - a pleasure for Pynchon fans. But here's what I wonder: to what extent did LD (published in '91) influence M&D and and Against the Day? One small example: LD makes references to Vaucanson (or his evil cousin?) and his automata. I don't doubt for a moment that Pynchon was quite capable of referencing Vaucanson without any help from anyone. But he may (or must?) have read LD. Much as I loved LD, it's no GR. Still, the two authors are on the same wavelength, if not actively cross-pollinating (to mix metaphors).

Laura
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