James Cheshire and other Conchlers,

That was an entertaining list of unwanted shells. Perhaps a Freudian, if
there any left, would find all kinds of meaning in your likes and dislikes,
but even Freud (almost) said, "Sometimes a shell is just a shell." I think
that one's taste changes over a lifetime.

I, too, did not care for oysters when I began collecting fossils. Both in
the modern and ancient form, the Oyster is an acquired taste. At first they
just look homely, then you realize what good friends they've been for years,
always there when the others desert you, steadfast. Then you learn to
appreciate their inner beauty--the porcellaneous interior, the well-turned
muscle--even their team spirit--and you realize that your aesthetics have
evolved, just as for wine and olives.

I would not hasten or delay your development in this regard, and indeed
thank you for sharing your thoughts. Perhaps someday you, too, will
appreciate the oysters.

Andrew K. Rindsberg
Geological Survey of Alabama