A reader writes:
Your summary of Dahl’s hut was way too harsh – perhaps you need to a trip back to Britain and reconnect with that culture. My dad has a "disgusting" little hut in the garden where he putters about with electronic bits and bobs. It’s a very common thing. And Dahl’s hut was in no way disgusting; a bit decrepit perhaps but it’s probably been left to moulder somewhat since he died. And with the climate being generally cold and damp it’s not surprising that things get a bit mildewy.
I clicked the link expecting to see human faeces on the floor or something. Instead, I was treated to a charming little personal space filled with mementos and a comfy chair. Lovely.
My dad had one at his allottment; and at the back of the garden (where he once reared chickens and rabbits). So I know whereof I speak and since I spent many hours there as a kid, am very fond of Brit shed culture. There’s even a blog about them! And my brother, who thinks my abode in Ptown qualifies, just sent me this calendar for 2009. And there was something clammy and damp and nightmarish about Dahl’s hideaway that did indeed bring back Blighty. "Filth" was meant lovingly.
The Dish 