Two contributors named Stephen Moss have written to a national newspaper describing the long-running mix-ups caused by sharing both a name and an employer. Their letters, published in response to an article by Ewan Murray about being confused with golf commentator Ewen Murray, detail years of misdirected praise, misplaced expectations and the occasional cheque sent to the wrong man.
The first correspondent, based in Mark, Somerset, is a former literary editor and a specialist in chess and classical music. He noted that at least the two Murrays have the advantage of working for different outlets, whereas he and his namesake both write for the same publication, leading to persistent confusion among readers.
What kind of mix-ups have readers reported?
According to the Somerset-based Stephen Moss, a member of Sedgemoor chess club once invited him to play a game under a misunderstanding about his identity.
We would be very honoured if you could come and give us a game
He added that the invitation was not, in fact, genuinely intended for him. In another case, a woman praised his birding articles before undercutting the compliment.
but when you write about classical music, it's absolutely wonderful!
He admitted he did not correct her or credit the other Stephen Moss at the time.
How does the second Stephen Moss describe the confusion?
Writing from Surbiton, London, the second correspondent said he has come to accept his role as
