One of the great Brunhildes departs

Not much to say about this except that it's sad to lose so un-diva-like a presence from the artform that invented the word.

Another legendary moment came after one of her frequent battle-of-the-high-note contests with tenor Franco Corelli during the second-act duet from Turandot. Enraged that no matter how hard he tried she could hold onto the climactic high C longer than he could, Corelli apparently got his revenge during their third-act love scene by biting her on the neck instead of kissing her. Ms. Nilsson is said to have telephoned [Metropolitan Opera general manager Rudolf] Bing to cancel her next performance with the explanation, "I have rabies."

And another favorite:

Once asked what was the chief requirement for singing the role of Isolde, she replied: "Comfortable shoes."

"A Wind from the South" Microsoft Reader version finally ready for download

It took some tweaking, but it's finally ready -- see the sidebar at the Raetian Tales blog for the purchase link.

This version also contains (in an appendix) a set of maps illustrating Mariarta's travels. (The .PDF version will also shortly be upgraded to include these: everyone who's purchased a copy of the book in that format will receive an upgraded version as soon as it's ready.)

Thanks again to the amiable "test-drivers" who ran the original .LIT file through its paces! You'll all be receiving a free copy of the final version shortly.

Corrected

The problem with e-Junkie which would have asked readers for $599.00 for each copy of the MS Reader version of A Wind from the South.

(I think moderately well of my work, but, guys, not THAT well.) ;)