Letter: Forgotten teeth

Sir: There is indeed a simple explanation of why Alec Just (Letters, 29 May) is unable to remember cleaning his teeth, but can recollect if there is any coffee remaining in his mug. Cleaning the teeth is not necessary for survival; drinking a liquid is.

A further explanation lies in the difference between duty and pleasure. The former we are always keen to forget; the latter, hopefully, we always remember.

JUDITH HOLMES

Harleston, Norfolk