Told by the Colonel

In a smoky Paris hotel lounge, a weathered American colonel silences his boisterous companions by demanding an owl from the bewildered waiter. The request sparks curiosity, and the colonel obliges with a rambling tale that blends humor, bird‑watching lore, and a dash of satire. Listeners are drawn into his world of eccentric observations, from the pretensions of parrot owners to the absurdities of language learning in the animal kingdom.

The story unfolds as the colonel recounts the arrival of a boastful parrot bought by his daughter, a bird that refuses English until it invents its own tangled grammar lessons. His vivid descriptions of the bird’s relentless study sessions and the peculiar logic it applies to crackers and tradesmen showcase a whimsical, almost fable‑like charm. The narrative’s leisurely pace and witty commentary make it a delightful auditory experience, inviting listeners to ponder the quirks of both humans and their feathered companions.