Your piece discussing rare earth elements such as europium, dysprosium, gadolinium, praseodymium, holmium, and ytterbium was quite informative (What are Ukraine’s critical minerals – and why does Trump want them?, 17 February). However, I found it challenging to get through due to the constant distraction of a catchy tune by Tom Lehrer stuck in my head.
John O’Dwyer
Steeple Claydon, Buckinghamshire
My favorite note (Letters, 18 February) from a history instructor reached me just before my Cambridge interview: “His brooding subversiveness will resonate well with a specific type of don.” Unfortunately, it didn’t. Perhaps that don had other commitments that day. Fortunately, I landed at Warwick, where EP Thompson was a prominent figure on campus.
Nick Barton
Henstridge, Somerset
What’s the issue with the US planning to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America? France and Britain share a body of water; the British refer to it as the English Channel, while the French call it La Manche. Both nations seem content with this arrangement.
Michael Delahaye
Adelaide, Australia
During election season, the inhabitants of the cork-covered residence (Report, 18 February) will find it easy to put up their party banners and other paraphernalia.
Jeremy Sleath
Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
In my household, we say Doge as “doggy” and Musk as “muck,” much like doggy muck (Letters, 18 February).
Jennifer Jenkins
London
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