A Personal Note

Abstract

The first time I read your paper on Data Semantics (Veltman 1984), I thought this was the way linguistics should be done. This paper had a great impact on my MA thesis and my subsequent work. Later on, your defaults paper (Veltman 1996) inspired my doctoral research proposal. You have reviewed the proposal, which for me was the first time a name in a classical paper turned out to be an actual living being. I could not imagine at the time that I would spend three years as a postdoc in your project 'On vagueness—and how to be precise enough' (NOW 360-20-201). The years I have been working in the project were simply great. I have learnt a lot about vagueness and gradability, and no less about academic practice. You accompanied me through the writing of my first journal paper; through the writing of my first grant proposal; the first conference organization; student supervision, and ultimately, through my applications to 'real' jobs. Now, working in Bar Ilan University, back in my home town, much of my research still concentrates on questions that you have presented to me, and I make extensive use of the feedback you have given me in pursuing academic tasks. I am trying to be as kind and positive to my students, yet as effective as you have been in my supervision, and it always helps. Thank you Frank, for making it all possible — for inspiring my thought, and for an invaluable, thoughtful tutoring into academic life. Thank you for your modesty, clarity, kindness, and friendship. Enjoy the Festschrift and the wonderful, fruitful years ever after! Till soon, Galit