Notebooks

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Singing Byrd in a cage

Tudor composer William Byrd concealed his true faith in music – and his yearning for a return to better times resonates with us today in the chimes of the chapel choir.

Francesca Peacock November 27, 2020

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Rediscovering Germany

The pandemic coincided with the 30th anniversary of the reunification of Germany - the crisis is a chance to find that sense of optimism again.

Simon Strauß November 26, 2020

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Blinded by the light

Blindness offers a metaphor for the perils of worldly delusion. And the physically blind can sometimes discover new ways of seeing.

Alastair Benn November 19, 2020

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Thank goodness for gardens

Throughout history communal spaces have provided refuge and reconnection. We need them more than ever.

Francesca Peacock November 14, 2020

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Neverending story

Sometimes when a tale concludes we want to know what happens next to fascinating characters. Even Shakespeare leaves his readers wondering.

Bruce Anderson November 12, 2020

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Resilient London will regenerate

It is often said that the city is like an organism – now lethargic, but soon to burst forth with renewed vigour.

Jenny McCartney November 3, 2020

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When artists retrain

The fine hand of the artist and the musician has gone a long way for some of history's great and terrible figures.

Harry Cluff October 30, 2020

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Stuck in Herbert’s Temple

George Herbert's architectural approach to poetry is ideal reading when stuck indoors.

Francesca Peacock October 23, 2020

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Like so many Alexanders

Few historical figures have left such a lasting impression on such a variety of cultures as Alexander the Great.

Harry Cluff October 16, 2020