Reading yet another book on George Armstrong Custer. A most unusual fascination I can’t seem to shake off, even when I am afraid it’s a huge waste of time

It started as a toddler. Some of my first memories are tied to Custer. Even as a child Custer’s marching tune, Gary Owen, would give me goosebumbs. I would reenact the battle of the Little Bighorn with toy soldiers over and over again. I assume I profoundly identified with Custer. The question is why though.

Last week I read ‘The last stand’ and yesterday I started listening to ‘Custer’s trials’.

I can’t say it’s a useful investment of my time or that it brings me any closer to my goals. It’s almost certainly just a form of escapism, but a fascinating one.

And maybe, just maybe, understanding this shamelessly ambitious, vain, rule breaking Custer, this man full of contradictions, will finally lead me to a better understanding and more acceptance of myself.