n>The European museum director asked me my field of study, and I replied, “icons of the Virgin Mary.” His silver beard unsuccessfully concealed a snicker. “Men don’t typically study Mary,” he told me. I suppose I might have shifted the conversation to sports, but, as the respective footballs of our continents are different shapes altogether, the exchange ground to an awkward halt instead, as did any prospects for the fellowship I was seeking. Read Full Article »