The wisdom of age

Devout readers of the Spectator will know Marcus Berkmann well. He is a regular book reviewer and writes a column about music that no one else listens to — he admits as much in public, and does so without a shade of embarrassment.

He views the horrendous prospect of ageing in the same breezy manner. His new book, A Shed of One’s Own, regards the inevitable march of age and concludes that we mustn’t worry about it. What you’ve lost in physique (assuming you ever had it), you’ve gained immeasurably in knowledge. The key is to use that nous for the greater good.

The publishers declare that Berkmann has mastered midlife without the crisis. Now there’s a promise to rejuvenate your sagging resolve in the New Year.