October 20, 2004 -- The
world's such a grim place these days that magazines have a moral duty
to present us with a kinder, gentler view of the place. 
That's why we read Modern Drunkard and The Chap.
Modern Drunkard is put out by a group of self-described "functional alcoholics" based in Denver,
CO. The editor is Frank Kelly Rich, who has dedicated the mag to the
art of unapologetic, stylish boozing. Rich's mission is to "take back
the word alcoholic from the fascists. Soon it will be considered a
compliment," he promises.
Our two favorite Modern Drunkard pieces so far are "Martini Madness" and the "When Drunks Ruled" booze ads that never were.
The Chap, a London-based quarterly for "Anarcho-Dandyists," "offers
guidance to those cast adrift in a world of increasing vulgarity." The
editors note that "By turning ancient rituals of courtesy and dress
into revolutionary acts, the immaculately attired Anarcho-Dandyist can
use the razor-sharp crease in his trousers to press home his advantage."
This
will have the following effect: "Once presented with the dazzling sight
of rakishly angled trilbies, gleaming brogues and exquisitely mixed dry
martinis, hoi polloi's long-cherished nylon sportswear and strawberry
milkshakes will suddenly lose their appeal."
We can only hope.
