Patrick Caneday may be another L.A. bard

I greatly enjoyed Patrick Caneday’s reflections on the great Al Martinez, who is indeed the one and only Bard of L.A. (Small Wonders, “Reflections on the one and only Bard of L.A.,” April 7).

Coincidentally, a few months ago I emailed Caneday, personally thanking him for his articles and told him he had the makings of a worthy successor to Martinez. I even threw in the late Jack Smith for good measure. Needless to say, he replied that he was greatly humbled and honored. The art of entertaining small talk, on a regular basis and on a deadline, is a great gift and Caneday has that gift in spades. The Leader is lucky to have him.

Jim Carroll

Burbank