ineffable.

Decided to polish my Alden cordovan boots.

There’s a part of me that believes that when you buy a good pair of shoes, you strike up a bargain. They promise tireless devotion and tenacity, and you promise to offset the inevitable abuse with a regimen of cleaning and polishing.

I bought them at Tassels in December of 2010. I had beaten the shit out of them while trekking around France back in January, and failed to provide the promised maintenance (see above). The Aldens had borne me safely over slick ice and through crusty snow. I nonetheless broke the basic bargain of those who are lucky enough to own and abuse good shoes. It’s past time to expend a bit of effort and bring this account current.

…

Thanks is due to Ethan for reminding me of the value of a good shine.