I’m a sucker for those lists of must-read books, must-listen-to music and must-see art – whatever I think might offer enlightenment, a gem of delight, or be useful for a pub quiz or Trivial Pursuit.

On my bookshelf is 1001 Classical Recordings You Must Hear Before You Die (roughly one a week, although I’d better get a wriggle on). Next to the bed is 1001 Songs You Must Hear Before You Die (balances out the classical stuff). My undergraduate copy of The Norton Anthology of English Literature (2582 featherlight pages) remains handy, mostly to help a high schooler with their homework.