Saturday, after a supremely satisfying dinner at Pizzeria Delfina (thanks for the rec, neighbor!!), Mr. A and I decided to walk back to the hotel. It was about three miles away per google maps, and we were both feeling so stuffed -- and so relaxed -- a stroll was definitely in order.
Somewhere along Market Street I think, the name "Dubcek" sprang into my thoughts.
No clue from where, but then my brain is not always known for its linear logic.
"Dubcek. He's on my mind. " I told Mr. A. "What was he famous for, again? Czechoslovakia? The Velvet Revolution? Go ahead and call me an ignorant American, that's totally fair. I should know this. But I don't remember!!"
My self-flagellation stems in part from the fact that Mr. A hails from a distant Eastern European country (whose capital is not Prague), and he emigrated to Canada before moving to California. Which means he knows things. Like why Dubcek was the dude.
"Yes, Prague. He opened things up dramatically in '68. And then, '89."
"Right! Thanks!"
"I don't think Americans are all ignorant. Most people would probably know about the Velvet Revolution," he said.
"You're kidding, right? Your average person walking down the street knows who Dubcek is? I don't think so."
"I think they would."
"Ok, let's find out. Excuse me," I said, turning to a lone man who happened to be crossing the deserted street with us. Perfect timing! "We're just trying to settle a bet. Do you know what the Velvet Revolution is?"
"No. I've never heard of it. Sorry."
"No problem, thanks!"
Vindication.
And defeat.
Here's more info about it, in case you're curious. Not that you'd ever need a history refresher ;)
[image via prague-life.com]
