On the Limits of Self-Improvement - Christopher Hitchens. Links to Part II & III are contained in Part I.
It's resolution time, kids. So here is a three-part essay (though not really lengthy) from Mr. Hitchens, regarding his attempt at a makeover. It is accompanied by some hilarious photographs, so make sure to look over the slide show for each part.
Hitch (can I be that familiar? After the shower photos and the Brazilian wax, yes, I think I've earned it) is, at the time of the first part, a 59 year old British expatriate. Note that I said British. Improving his teeth is a prominent and successful part of his transformation. He is ripe for change.
Aren't we all? Don't resolutions reflect our lack of self-worth? Something about us needs improving, whether within or without. We make resolutions to improve ourselves in the classic categories: physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, or financial. If you can think of a category beyond these that your resolution(s) fit into, please let me know.
This isn't a New Year's essay, but it has all the makings of one. Hitch needs to improve his skin, physique, dentition, and, mostly, his anti-life habits. Hitch smokes too much. Hitch imbibes too much. Hitch eats too much. And he and exercise were never formally introduced.
I was expecting, based on the title of the essay, something a bit more thoughtful regarding what we really can and can't change about ourselves. I thought we were going to get some pithy lessons about life.
Instead, we get an enjoyable breezy read filled with humor and self-deprecation about Hitch's experiences in self-improvement. The third part, though, takes a turn. Hitch finally addresses his smoking habit and touches on his emotional state afterwards. It feels far more real and personal, and a bit more universal, at this point.
It was the teeth that made the final difference. Viva la dentistry!
Happy New Year!
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