Ports of Call (Ports of Call, #1)

by Jack Vance

He will be rife with abject explanations, of course. But I see him now for what he is: a poseur with a blatant mustache.

As for me, how shall I describe myself? I am, in essence, a wandering philosopher and a connoisseur of all that is exquisite and delectable, including beautiful mature women.

I celebrate the concrete! If I locate an itch, I scratch it! If I discover a leek and mutton pie, I eat it. If I come upon a beautiful woman, I make myself agreeable.”