Finlay's folly
Sir: I write with reference to an article by Alan Powers (Arts, 12 September) entitled 'Follies; Ian Hamilton Finlay's pamphlet war'. I was appalled that something so biased should be allowed to appear.
It is doubtful that Mr Powers has ever read the work to which he refers, as, though he appears aware of a 'slighting reference' to Little Sparta, the poetic garden of Mr Finlay, he has failed to notice the complimentary phrase calling it a 'fine and justly famed new garden', thus en- couraging the reader to visit and experi- ence it for himself. It is also surprising to see Mr Powers accuse Follies of dimi- nishing the glory of places such as Stour- head and Studley Royal, both of which are given detailed and picturesque coverage.
Is one supposed to find amusing, post- cards (however prettily printed) pinned upon the author's front door, calling him a 'nose-picking half pissed rat' and 'a fester- ing prat' (The Independent, 19 December, 1986)? The point in question is one of personal opinion. Mr Powers presumably based his opinion solely on information received from Mr Finlay. In the introduc- tion to Follies Mr Headley and Mr Meulenkamp explain that 'the folly must lie in the eye of the beholder' therefore the ensuing pages are a personal view with which every reader has the right to dis- agree, without subjecting the authors to a bombardment of abuse.
In catering for a discerning and educated public the press show their appreciation of literary ability.
'I can recommend Messrs Headley and Meulankamp to any reader' (The Sunday Telegraph).
'Witty, entertaining and profusely illus- trated' (Bucks Free Press).
A great deal of thought and research has evidently gone into creating Follies and it enchants and educates those who do not possess previous knowledge of the subject. G. E. A. Shomroni
Kensal House, Abbotsbrook, Bourne End, Buckinghamshire
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