“Half memoir, half travel, A Yank Back to England...is an absolutely wonderful book, not only about going home again but also about love and family and tradition and the passage of the years.”
—Michael Dirda, Pulitzer Prize-winning literary critic (Washington
Post)
To see the entire quote, click here.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

No punt intended

We walked towards the river Cam and crossed a small, hump-backed bridge. Beneath it were several young men in straw boaters with neckties swung around their waists to hold up their white flannel trousers. These would-be tour guides, local students, playfully accosted us as we passed by, extolling the virtues of viewing the River Cam from the inside of a punt. Clutching and jerking poles around, especially in public, was not my cup of tea. Punting was not for the uncoordinated, the inexperienced, or indeed, for me. Much better to watch. And so we did, from a hotel conveniently located just over the bridge.
The hotel had a lovely terrace and verandah, and from there we happily nibbled toast, slurped tea, and gazed upon the tranquil river traffic and the ancient spires of Cambridge. A little later, we ambled back over the Cam and made our slow progress across a large lawn, towards those hallowed halls of academe. Lew prepared for the march with all the resolve and determination of Scott returning from the South Pole.

10 comments:

Jeanette said...

My father was British and I can remember returning to England in 1983. My mother dragging him all the way. I shall enjoy following your blog.

Allen said...

It amazes me what kind of artwork they put into those back in the day. Now we are lucky to see any artwork at all in the new buildings.

The Prodigal Tourist said...

Jeanette--that's funny, sounds just like me and the Prodigal Wife! Did your father come round or did he remain a reluctant tourist?
Allen--yes, some of the new buildings don't have much aesthestic value, do they, they just have shock value. Or they look like upturned Lego pieces. Prince Charles is always complaining about that, that's probably the one thing I like about him!

A Brit in Tennessee said...

What a beautiful bridge.
We do have some spectacular architecture in Blighty don't we ?
I majored in English architecture, in school, and always admired the craft and dedication it took produce such a piece of history.
What a lovely trip, sipping tea and admiring the views...aahhhh so refined.
More...more...

Anonymous said...

Oh, I have that exact photo and I can attest to the fact that punting is NOT easy!

Anonymous said...

Hi Denis, you and Frances have been awarded over at my blog. Stop by soon.

Duchess of Tea said...

Hello, just stopped by to congratulate you on your mannish award, you truly deserve it.

Duchess xx

The Prodigal Tourist said...

Jo--refined, I like that! I try... English architecture, sounds like a fascinating field--did Prince Charles come in and scold everyone?
Melissa--you actually tried punting? Much better to watch! And an award? You're lovely, we'll pop over toot sweet! Thank you so much!
Your Grace--thank you very much.

Maggie said...

Oh such lovely wording... and I like the snap that goes with!

TheBeautyFile said...

This photo is so beautiful...rather dreamy....