Books by Felix Yusupov - "Lost Splendour" etc

[hikaru]

There are no earthquakes in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Central Russia at all.
So I am no fond of european ones. Thank you for clarification.
But I have experieced a lot of quakes in Japan. I really hate them.

Yes , there are a lot peaces in our antiques in Arbat yet.
But in Russia , Russian Popov or Kuznetsov Porcelaine costs more than Meissen.

[Taksa]

I finished  the book a couple of days ago and I really liked it, especcially the part of his childhood and youth.
but I have two questions and I would be very glad if you answer to them.

The first is - what is the real name of his dog? In English it is Gugusse, but in Russian version  at first he is called Clown but later, at the end he is called Punch. why?

The second - as I know - Bebe - is how Felix and Irine called their daughter, right? but why Madam Hoobie *I dont know how to write her name* is called Bebe in Russian version?

[Robert_Hall]

Punch is a clown.
I do not understand your second question.

[Taksa]

aaaaw...I thought that Punch is a colwn, but...in what language Punch is a clown?

I asked that, as I know, they called "Bebe" their daughter. but in russian book there is nothing said about it and Felix called Madam Hoobie as Bebe *or may be just Bibi??*
argh, my english

[Robert_Hall]

"Punch" is a clown in English. Probably most famously  in the "Punch & Judy" genre.[It is a bit difficult to expalin Punch & Judy, but suffice it to say it is a very old comedy routine, very English.
"Bebe" just means baby- a term of endearment, pretty universal, I would think.

[Taksa]

in Engish? but I looked it up in the dictionary and I didnt find!! and what is Gasusee or how...?

yes I think that it is something like "baby" but...how is Madam Hoobie called in English version?

 

[Robert_Hall]

Punch is just the name of a character in a puppet street theatre, common all over Europe. Just Google Punch & Judy, if you are that curious. Baby is just a common endearment. No big deal. I name one of my cats "Baby" , does not mean I gave birth to the creature.
Gasuesse just sounds like a pet name, probably does not mean anything. Unless someone else has something to offer, I am finished here.

[Taksa]

uuuhuh Punch - the name! stupid me)) but  its interesting to know how exactly he called the dog.

I name one of my cats "Baby" , does not mean I gave birth to the creature.
yes-yes. it's of course. I understand it.


thank you and sorry for disturbing.

[Robert_Hall]

Taksa- your are not disturbibg. Your questions are honest, and I do not mind answering with what I happen to know. Like you, I am a big Felix fan, so to speak. I do not find him detestable, despicable nor amoral.  Outrageous, niaive, flamboyant, privilaged, generous and kind is more my take on him.

[Taksa]

oh thanks)
Ive become his fan suddenly, about  a couple of weeks ago and Ive just read the book and have some questions. no, had. now almost everything is clear to me))

yes-yes. you characterized him very well.
he was very naive, I think.))

[Robert_Hall]

Taksa, try to find a book by Greg King- THE MAN WHO KILLED RASPUTIN. I know the title is rather sensational, but that is the publisher's decision. It is more  about Felix himself, I think.There is some very good insight into who Felix really was.

[scarlett_riviera]

Booohoo, I wish there were more modern-day Felixes for me to adore. He truly was an interesting character in history!

[Robert_Hall]

Hmmm, S-R, most rich, ambi-sexual, cultured, world-travelers are into the entertainment business now- go to Hollywood! Felix did, after all.

[scarlett_riviera]

Hollywood?? You mean like, uhm, David Beckhamish? I can't think of anyone in Hollywood who has the personality/style/flair of Felix. And I only thought of David Beckham cause he's the best-known metrosexual... oh wait, second to Ryan Seacrest. lol But you know, they're so far from Felix! I guess there will only be one Felix in a million years.

p.s.
sorry if my post did not make any sense.

[Robert_Hall]

I knew what you menat, S-R. Yes, Felix  Irina went "Hollywood" in the golden 30's  for a tiny bit. I do not think they really related to it though. As we know, theyb sued a film company and won.  I think they tolerated the NY society crowd, who are always groveling for royalty, exiled or otherwise.