Nobody knows what dystopian futures lie ahead and whether stories will be denuded of their humanity as Artificial Intelligence takes on a new role as storyteller. For now, though, we must continue telling our stories, try to pass them down generations, hopefully learn from them.
Storytelling is good for us Read More »
I’ve recently started Robert Macfarlane’s superb new book, Underland, where he reminds us that the verb “to discover” is to ‘reveal by excavation’, its roots meaning ‘to descend and bring to the light’. And so it is with storytelling.
The power of story (and narrating our own life story) Read More »
There are times where it gets a little frantic. This past ten days, it’s felt as though half of Paris has descended on to the streets. The local economy might not just survive but even thrive in the coming months. Parisians see eating out as a holy rite.
My very particular (and peculiar) Paris Read More »
Its merciless, this disease. Worse still, it’s discriminatory, exposing existing fault-lines across society.
Covid’s crappiest for those most at risk Read More »
Happening upon Wilmington Square with its lone dog walkers, and Lloyd Square with its jabbing pair of boxers, made me reflect why London is so dear to me.
London’s little surprises and lack thereof Read More »
I can walk for hours through surprise city squares. There’s the gems I mentally store away for future visits: the Horniman’s museum and gardens, and there’s Charles Dickens’ house, not far from Great Ormond Street – how come I’ve never visited? There’s the new Everyman at King’s Cross – when will it be safe to visit? Questions that enjoyably buzz around my head.
The varied delights of London town *and some horrors Read More »
London provides a familiar welcome home. It’s not necessarily cheery. I’m not talking about a warm cuddle or a reassuring back-rub. It feels more like I’m being greeted by a nonchalant wave
London late night calls Read More »
In my summer series reminiscing about previous holidays and travel both before and during the pandemic, my latest post is on post-lockdown life in one of France’s most sparsely populated regions.
Physical distancing is a way of life in this part of France Read More »
Trying to forget my stomach (for at least one afternoon), we headed further east to genteel Pasadena, where the stunning Huntington Botanical Gardens are located. With the handsome peak of San Antonio rising high into the distance, we needed at least a couple of hours to explore the sixteen themed gardens – and to walk off the Reuben and Skipper sandwiches.
California dreaming Read More »
Lviv’s locals joke about their city being the London of Ukraine. They are not referring to the cost of eating out. The city surprises you at every turn with its attractive restaurants, generously portioned dishes and reasonable prices. But to the rest of Ukraine, the city is known for its rain. A guidebook advised me to bring both my sunglasses and my umbrella, and in the event, I needed both.