A London Epic (part one)

Although I was deathly ill, I still managed to revel in London's elegance. As an English major, I felt particularly at home, seeing as most of our stay consisted of literary experiences.

We arrived by train--a mere eight pound journey--and immediately took the London Underground to our hotel.

The group among speeding "Piccadilly Line" trains

Once in Russel's Square, we unpacked and relaxed at The Celtic Hotel. Reportedly, David Faldet's favourite pub, The Helping Hand, was just around the corner. There was hardly enough time to become acquainted with the area, however, because the following morning, we took part on a literary tour of London.

A scene from the musical "Oliver" where rose vendors sold their goods:

"Who will buy?"

Another shot of park area and apartment units

Virginia Woolf's first residence with her sister

T.S. Eliot's publishing house

Residence of William Yeats

Mostly we visited locations where famous authors had resided. The city of London put up commemorative plaques such as the ones above to mark these special areas. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, and even knew where people like Charles Dickens liked to hang about. At one point, we were told that George Orwell had submitted his manuscript for Animal Farm to T.S. Eliot's publishing house, where it was promptly rejected. Apparently, the two authors hated each other. Anyway, our tour ended at the London Library, which was a breathtaking place, to be sure.

The green awnings indicate the renowned Reading Rooms,

where scholars are permitted to study

Statue outside library of Newton calculating the heavens

The library housed original documents and manuscripts such as the Magna Carta, Alice in Wonderland, Handel's Messiah, Beatles Lyrics (sometimes written upon used birthday cards), Jane Austin's drafts, and Audobon's bird drawings. It was truly humbling to be in the presence of giants.

That evening, many of us attended the London Symphony's opening concert. Photography was not allowed, but believe me when I say that no picture could do the hall justice (not to mention the beauty of the orchestra!) The program this season is strictly Russian, so we listened to works like the Carmen Suite, which was arranged by the modern Russian composer, Shchedrin. We also heard his Piano Concerto No 5, as well as an unrelated Mussorgsky orch Ravel. Immediately after the final cymbal crash, audience members were shouting in awe.

It was a tremendous day indeed, and we all arrived back at the hotel quite spent.