21 FEBRUARY 1998, Page 26

Whipped into shape

Sir: Paul Johnson (And another thing, 14 February) is not the only one whose father was against his talent for artistic creation to develop into a profession not considered safe and appropriate. He was luckier than the Roman poet Ovid.

Paul's father did not whip him when he continued to paint. Ovid, whose father gave him a good thrashing, exclaimed (in a verse): Parce, pater, virgis. Iam numquam carmi- na fingam.

Ovid became one of the best Roman poets. Johnson did not become a profes- sional painter, but a good writer who can paint good pictures to his own and many others' delight. I am looking forward to his exhibition.

Larry Fisch

46 The Drive, Harrow, Middlesex