I’ve long been fascinated by the metaphor of “returning home.” It’s one which trails through all types of literature. Sometimes it’s a positive statement: home represents womb-like safety, the innocence of childhood. If only the character can return home, everything … Read More
“If there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that life can change completely in a single second.” So I responded to an upset eighteen year old Canadian as we sped towards Lyon airport, the sun setting to the right of us, … Read More
LESSONS FROM THE RAIN I struggle with the cold. I really do – and since arriving in Europe it’s been cold with a capital C! Cold with sun is doable, but when it’s cold and rainy and you can’t be … Read More
If you can imagine a tiny village in France, with 11th-18th century buildings covered in moss and vines, and daffodils and green paddocks stretching as far as one can see – If you can imagine getting sunburnt one day and … Read More
Brief observations… The first thing we discovered was a siesta in the middle of the day is practically necessary to survive the heat. I am so thankful for the aircon in our hotel – it actually kept our room cooler … Read More
I don’t find minimalism particularly hard, but there’s always a trade off. Today’s one was my Bible and journal in lieu of a third pair of shoes. Ah well, I can’t wear three pairs at once anyway! A prayer point … Read More
[PS: This is obviously not travel-related. Just something I thought I should post as I tie up loose ends. Incidentally (or not) I will be reading Good Omens (book) on the plane.] TV series |6 episodes | Amazon Prime Based … Read More
We all know the fictional ‘trope’ of “self-sacrifice.” It’s what Aslan, Harry Potter, Timothy and Jesus have in common. I’ve recently been musing on a specific type of sacrifice ‘trope’ (for want of a better word) which seems to crop … Read More
I wrote a review of sorts for the BBC series Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, but it occurs to me that I have neglected to write about book by Susanna Clarke of the same name. There are multiple book reviews … Read More
This post was written in response to someone who dared to suggest in my hearing that non-fiction trumps fiction. (Don’t worry, we’re still on speaking terms!) My defence of fiction (firstly, let’s make sure we’re on the same page) Firstly, … Read More
