weather: Rain, 12 degrees
mood: Tired
food: Steak and Guiness Pie
time on public transport: 2h45
artefacts seen: Titian's Tarquin and Lucretia, a whole lot of Constable, Turner, Palmer and Linnell
impressions:
There is something about Cambridge that, if I did not need to be there, I would never go back. It's not the people, the university, or the town, its the land itself that makes me want to get as far away from it as possible.
This in itself makes me feel quite taken aback. I've dreamed of Oxford and Cambridge for years. Of walking through Kings College chapel or riding a bike through its streets, yet, upon arrival, on all occasions so far, I set foot on the land and spend the rest of my time trying not to burst into tears.
Odd response to the city aside, the Fitzwilliam is gorgeous. I actually stopped mid-stride en route to lunch when I thought I saw Tarquin and Lucretia out the corner of my eye. It was really there - in all its glory. How many times did I study that piece in Art History? No reproduction ever does the real thing justice. And the impressionists, and the Constables and Turners... And some Palmer and Linnell for good measure. The buildings too, were wonderful.
As was the 12 solid pages of notes I managed to make in close examinations of the art-text. I should visit old churches for inspiration more often. I think I can thank St Paul's for that! And King's College Chapel.
I was looking at the photos again last night. Wow.
Anyway, its Blake's prints and watercolours tomorrow, and then an attempt to use the University and Department libraries again! Fingers crossed it all goes well.
They say it'll be clear but cold in Cambridge tomorrow. I certainly hope so. I was soggy before the museum doors even opened, and drenched by the time I caught the train home. Walking to and from the station is besides the point. It was wet today. Hopefully, with the sun tomorrow, I won't feel as terrible as I have been. And I can take more photos.
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