Vote for A Cultural Icon

The BBC staff behind The Culture Show are, for reasons best known to themselves, asking You, The Public to vote for your top Living Icon. They haven't quite defined what they mean by "icon", and the result is a rather bizarre list that includes Morrissey, Alan Bennett, Stephen Fry, Michael Caine and, inexplicably, Kate Moss. This presents something of a dilemma, as I feel a certain loyalty to Alan Bennett, who was kind enough to reply to my letter, yet a little part of me wants to vote for Moz Just Because, and a third bit of me wants to give my vote to Stephen Fry as a sort of democratic Cyber Hug. The criteria amused me: icons apparently have to be "Living" (yep, there's a clue in the name), but that seems to be about it.

I'm surprised there are no politicians included. They are not specifically excluded, but maybe it was felt that the concept of "culture" and "politician" presented something of an oxymoron. Nevertheless, I can't help feeling it's a rather sad day when there is even the slightest suggestion that Kate Moss has somehow had a greater impact on the cultural landscape of this country than, say, Tony Benn.

Enough of my moaning. I went for Bennett in the end. But Stephen, if you're reading, BIG CYBER HUG!!