John Metcalfs Shut Up He Explained defies expectations and strict definition. Part memoir, part travelogue, part criticism wholly Metcalf it is thoughtful, engaged, contentious and often very funny. It offers a full dose of Metcalfian wisdom and wit, and provides ample evidence that neither age nor indifference nor attack have withered him: he remains as sharp, critical, constructive and insightful as ever.