Sole purpose

Re “Throw a shoe, become a legend,” Dec. 16

Let’s please acknowledge the mixed reaction among citizens of the U.S. and countries the world over -- not only in the Arab world -- to Muntather Zaidi’s gesture.

He has many fans outside the region, it not being lost on us that his statement was made on behalf of widows, orphans and the dead from every nation drawn into this disastrous conflict -- and even for those spared any personal involvement who nevertheless share his disgust. Congratulations are in order to Zaidi for having said exactly what needed to be said at that moment, succinctly and unforgettably.

While Dubya seems to have come out of it praised for his sense of humor, it seems doubtful that he’ll go down in history as a great comedian -- any more than did Marie Antoinette with her “Let them eat cake.”

Chris Maher

West Hollywood