How to encapsulate a life, in all its messiness, epiphanies, misunderstandings, disappointments, and joys? With George Sprott 1894-1975, Seth offers one tragicomic answer. Page by page, we learn about George - outmoded television host, creature of habit, charming if pompous old man, selfish lover, man about to die-and though this is ultimately the story of one man's death, Seth leavens it with humor and restraint. (W) Seth