Bohemia Village Voice

[From ‘Bohemian Bagatelle‘, published 1979 by the Bohemians]

REFLECTIONS ON A RETURN VISIT TO THE CITY

There’s something special about the City of London;

Something nobody can put a name to;

Something different about the atmosphere;

But not really the atmosphere we breathe;

More the atmosphere of experience:

Of history speaking through the hub-bub;

The fascination of the semi-hidden courtyards;

The livery company halls;

The ancient customs still observed.

Everyone who knows London at all says:

‘It has an atmosphere all its own’.

Though most never look at the ancient churches,

Nor cast an eye in the direction of the Bank or Monument;

They’ve never seen inside the Guildhall

Or observed the election of the Lord Mayor,

And couldn’t direct you to Threadneedle Street or Crutched Friars.

Edward G. Preston