Listening to Alan Rickman recite Sen. Byrd's anti-war speech from 2/12/03

[Rabrrrrrr]

Wow!! I've not heard or read the speech before, and Rickman, of course, makes it sing.

Here's the text:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0212-07.htm

But I'm listening to a recording, and no link for that.

In only the space of two short years this reckless and arrogant Administration has initiated policies which may reap disastrous consequences for years.

I truly must question the judgment of any President who can say that a massive unprovoked military attack on a nation which is over 50% children is "in the highest moral traditions of our country".

[Hell Hath No Fury]

1. That was one of the most amazing...

speeches I have ever heard. Whenever anyone tries to make excuses for the IWR ("We didn't know!" "We were fooled!") votes I point to this speech as proof that any excuse is just that -- a bullshit excuse.

Byrd got it 100% -- he knew what was coming down, knew just how dangerous this resolution was, and knew what it would mean for the country.

A pox on every coward and/or stupid person who voted for that shit.

And listening to Alan read it is practically orgasmic. :loveya:

[Rabrrrrrr]

7. It really was, wasn't it? Powerful! After listening and reading it,

I said to my partner - see, this is how old people are SUPPOSED to be, speaking truth to power, because they're old enough to see the bullshit and speak out against it - or at least, they should be - and because they're older than the people they're speaking out against.

ALL old people should be giving us the perspective of a long view of time, don't be hasty, and reinforcing an indepth understanding of the real value of human life.

YAY for the old people like Byrd! A pox on the twisted, sycophantish, or evil old people like Cheney and Thurmond.

[hopein08]

2. I knew there was a reason I liked Alan Rickman so much!!

That is an amazing speech. Where did you get a recording of Alan Rickman reciting it? I'd like to hear it.

Strangely, in the Harry Potter books, Snape is my favorite character and that is because of Alan Rickman's portrayal of him in the movies.

[wildhorses]

3. I could listen to Alan Rickman read the telephone directory

but, this is great!!!

Thanks Rabrrrrrrrrrrrr for posting it:yourock:

[MountainLaurel]

4. Here's a link to the speech

http://britbitsandclips.com/AR_Audio.htm

Scroll down to the entry about the speech and click on the photo of him at the anti-war march (squee!) to download the zipped files.

[Rabrrrrrr]

6. Thanks fort the link!

[tigereye]

5. excellent

I also liked the Helen Thomas article about William Sloan Coffin.... that was on the page. Cool website.

I love Rickman.