Monday, November 17, 2008

A Great City Still

Janet and I recently returned from London, our first visit in 10 years. Blessedly, much of what we loved most remains intact: the sense of excitement; the fast but not frenetic pace; the overall cleanliness of streets and sidewalks; the great parks; the museums; the splendor of the fabled Harrod's store; the rich variety of daily newspapers; and the politeness of the residents, three of whom approached us with offers of directions when we appeared perplexed (which we were!).

A couple of things struck us, though: One, the lack of facilities for the disabled in the vast Underground (subway) system. On numeous occasions, we saw people struggling on stairs with canes and crutches or a baby carriage because of an absence of elevators. Two, the West End theater is still flourishing but playbills are no longer free. They cost 3 pounds, or about $4.50!

Enough with the complaints. This remains the city of which the esteemed Dr. Samuel Johnson spoke 200-plus years ago: "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life."

Robert Goldsborough

1 comment:

Barrie said...

Thought you might get a kick out of knowing a couple of your books on my Christmas wish list. :)