How appropriate that one of Canada’s best known newspaper columnists and commentators on radio and TV was brought up in one of the oldest European settlements in North America — which also happened to be in the last province to join Confederation, and barely did!

For a refresher on Newfoundland, enjoy Mr. Murphy’s Reluctant Union here.

Anita’s presentation about Rex Murphy was sprinkled generously with her own sense of humour. Certainly, Rex Murphy is well appreciated by members of the club, who know him best as host of CBC Radio’s Cross-Country Checkup, commentator for CBC TV’s The National, and journalist for newspapers The National Post and The Globe & Mail. But did you know…

• Rex Murphy’s mother loved literature and learning and his father was known for “linguistic dazzle.”

• Rex Murphy was politically active very young, having entered Memorial University at fifteen. He was noticed (not in a good way) by Joey Smallwood, but the students ultimately got what they wanted!

• In the 1980’s, he ran for political office in Newfoundland. Although he didn’t win, he decided he was better critiquing politics and politicians anyway.

• He is author of two books, Canada and Other Matters of Opinion and Points of View (Penguin Random House)

• Lifelong classical literature study underpins his writing. His way with words (& quotes) is like no other.

• He is a fierce defender of free speech and will jump into messy, controversial topics himself — such as defending Alberta’s and the East Coast’s oil industry, for example!

There is much more to be found in Anita’s Presentation Summary.

The Club received a special gift: a letter from Rex Murphy himself. The letter is a gift to share, and can be read here, with the kind permission of Rex Murphy.