Lady Budd

Remembering

“When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?”
Maya Angelou

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched the largest seaborne invasion in history, known as D-Day. The operation aimed to liberate German-occupied France and ultimately bring an end to World War II. The invasion involved approximately 155,000 troops, with the majority being American, British, and Canadian soldiers.

The operation began with a massive aerial and naval bombardment of the Normandy coast, followed by the landing of troops on five beaches – Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. Despite facing heavy resistance from German forces, the Allies were able to establish a foothold on the beaches and begin their advance inland.

Juno Beach May 9, 2023 (Rebecca Budd Archives)

D-Day was a pivotal moment in the war, as it allowed the Allies to gain a significant foothold in Europe and begin pushing back against the German army. The operation was a massive logistical undertaking, involving months of planning and preparation. The bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought on D-Day will never be forgotten, and the operation remains a testament to the power of allied cooperation and determination.

More than 14,000 volunteer soldiers from across Canada, under Major-General Rod Keller, commander of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, stormed Juno Beach.

Canadian troops faced heavy resistance as they landed on Juno Beach. Despite this, they were able to push inland and secure their objectives. The success of the Canadian forces on Juno Beach was crucial to the overall success of the D-Day invasion, as it allowed the Allies to establish a foothold in Normandy and begin the liberation of France.

In the News: Mona Lisa To Move?

France’s Louvre Considering Moving the Mona Lisa to Her Own Basement Room

According to EuroNews.Culture, The world-famous Mona Lisa, renowned as the most visited work of art globally, may undergo a significant change in her display location. With an astounding number of up to ten million admirers annually, the painting has garnered widespread adoration. However, it has also been the subject of notorious events, such as theft attempts, protests, and even a peculiar cake-throwing incident by a disguised individual.

At the Louvre with the Mona Lisa (Rebecca Budd Archives May 2023)

In light of these developments, an ambitious new project seeks to address these concerns. With this potential move to the basement, there may be a significant shift in the way visitors experience and interact with this iconic masterpiece.

The challenges faced by visitors trying to appreciate the “Mona Lisa” at the Louvre are indeed notable. The limited viewing time and the barriers in place, including the bullet-proof glass, can create a less than ideal experience for many admirers.

In a recent visit to the Louvre, we were surrounded by a crowd trying to see the famous Mona Lisa. It was bedlam. My photographs are a testament to the need for a better way to experience this remarkable painting.

Why do we want to see the Mona Lisa?

The Mona Lisa continues to engage audiences worldwide, remaining a viral sensation centuries after its creation. Why?

Because the painting is famous?

Because of the mystique surrounding the painting?

Because we want to experience the genius of Leonardo da Vinci firsthand?

Learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else.
Leonardo da Vinci

At the Louvre with the Mona Lisa Photo taken from the back of the room with my iPhone (Rebecca Budd Archives May 2023)

The Mona Lisa, painted between 1503 and 1506, it is widely considered one of the most iconic and recognizable works of art in the world. The subject of the painting is believed to be Lisa Gherardini, the wife of a wealthy Florentine merchant named Francesco del Giocondo. The enigmatic smile and gaze of the Mona Lisa have contributed to its enduring appeal and status as a masterpiece in the art world.

Perhaps we want to understand Leonardo da Vinci. His life and creative genius continues to intrigue and inspire people around the world. His pioneering spirit and innovative mindset have left an indelible mark on art, science, and humanity as a whole, making him a figure of fascination and admiration. His contributions to fields such as anatomy, engineering, and art have firmly established him as a polymath of immense historical and cultural significance.

Perhaps we simply want to experience being in the presence of history. The Mono Lisa is not limited by time. She continues to live long after her creator.

Her story is still unfolding.

Bartholomew Fair Returned after 150 Years.

Upon our arrival in London in early September 2023, we were greeted by a major heatwave. London’s streets shimmered in the heat, and the usual hustle and bustle of the urban landscape was accompanied by the palpable presence of the sun’s relentless warmth.

As we ventured through the historic streets and modern landmarks carrying water bottles with us, the scorching temperatures provided a unique backdrop to our London experience, adding an unexpected and memorable dimension to our visit, which was made even more unforgettable by the momentous occasion of the return of the Bartholomew Fair.

The Revival of Bartholomew Fair in 2023

The historic Bartholomew Fair returned to London’s Square Mile, offering a vibrant three-week celebration reminiscent of the centuries-old tradition. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 31 August to 16 September 2023, London celebrated the 900th birthday of St. Bartholomew’s Hospital and Barts the Great church. The reimagined fair paid homage to its historic roots while embracing a diverse range of entertainment and creating a lively atmosphere during our time in London.

St. Bart’s the Back Story

From Jester to Monk

In 1133, King Henry I granted a charter establishing Bartholomew Fair to a monk named Rahere, who had previously served as Henry’s jester. The purpose of the fair was to raise funds for the Priory of St. Bartholomew, which Rahere had founded in 1123 after his spiritual awakening.

St. Bartholomew’s visitation to Rahere in a vision, instructing him to construct a priory in West Smithfield, adds a mystical and compelling dimension to Rahere’s narrative. This divine intervention underscores the transformative nature of Rahere’s spiritual awakening and emphasizes the profound impact of his transition from a jester to a devout monk. The multifaceted legacy that Rahere and St. Bartholomew bestowed upon London - encompassing the Bartholomew Fair, a hospital for convalescence, and the Priory of St. Bartholomew for spiritual solace - endures as a testament to their enduring influence on the city’s social

Rahere’s spiritual awakening led him to dedicate his life to religious pursuits. As for his transition from being King Henry’s jester to a monk who founded the Priory of St. Bartholomew, it represents a significant shift in his life, showcasing a profound change from a secular role to a deeply spiritual and religious calling. This transition likely involved a deep personal journey and a strong conviction to pursue a life of piety and service to the church.

The Bartholomew Fair held a practical and commercial importance in the region. Situated adjacent to Smithfield Market, which had its own charter granted to the City of London, the fair attracted drovers and dealers from across the country, who brought horses, cattle, sheep, and pigs to trade. It served as a bustling marketplace, offering a diverse range of goods and services for both local residents and visitors. This convergence of trade and commerce alongside the spiritual and charitable elements further enriched the multifaceted legacy of St. Bartholomew and Rahere in London.

The enduring legacy of the St. Bartholomew’s fair and the “Barts” hospital, despite the dissolution of the priory during the Reformation, is a testament to their resilience and lasting impact on London’s history.

The Power of Cultural Memory

St Bart’s Fair is a testament to the power of cultural memory within a society.

Through cultural memory, societies maintain a connection to their heritage, allowing for the transmission of values, knowledge, and experiences across generations. This continuity of memory serves to anchor communities amidst change, fostering a sense of belonging and providing a framework for understanding their place in the world. It also contributes to the preservation of cultural diversity and the appreciation of historical legacies.

The revival of the historic Bartholomew Fair in London, demonstrates how cultural memory plays a pivotal role in ensuring the celebration of centuries-old traditions continues to hold significance within the contemporary context.

The Ides of March

The Ides of March and Roman Deities

The Ides of March is the day on the Roman calendar marked as the Ides, roughly the midpoint of a month, of Martius, corresponding to 15 March on the Gregorian calendar. It was marked by several major religious observances.

The month of Martius was named after the Roman god Mars, and his “birthday” was celebrated on the 1st of March. However, it is interesting to note that the Ides of each month, including Martius, were considered sacred to Jupiter, the supreme deity in Roman mythology. This association adds a layer of religious significance to the already notable date of the Ides of March.

Ancient Rome in Modern Rome (Archives 2004 Rebecca Budd)

The Ides of March and Julius Caesar.

Beware the Ides of March.
(Soothsayer, Julius Caesar, Act 1 Scene 2)

In 44 BC, the Ides of March became notorious as the date of the assassination of Julius Caesar

On March 15th, 44 BC, Julius Caesar, the renowned Roman general and statesman, was assassinated. This fateful event marked a significant turning point in Roman history.

Et tu, Brute?—Then fall, Caesar.
(Caesar, Julius Ceasar, Act 3, Scene 1)

The immortalization of Julius Caesar and the Ides of March in literature and popular culture can be attributed to the renowned playwright William Shakespeare. In his play “Julius Caesar,” Shakespeare depicted the events surrounding Caesar’s assassination on the Ides of March, contributing to the enduring fascination with this historical moment.

Cowards die many times before their deaths,
The valiant never taste of death but once.
(Caesar, Julie Ceasar, Act 2 Scene 2)

Rimini, Italy Piazza Tre Martiri, statua di cesare (Archives 2004 Rebecca Budd)

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the renowned American poet, experienced profound sorrow and grief in his life. The loss of his first wife, Mary Storer Potter, at the young age of 22 on November 29, 1835, was a devastating event for him. Her death followed a short period of illness, adding to the pain experienced by Longfellow.

In 1861, Longfellow’s second wife tragically died in a fire. In 1863, his oldest son, Charles Appleton Longfellow, joined the Union Army without his father’s knowledge or approval. It was only through a letter dated March 14, 1863, that Longfellow discovered Charles’s decision.

As a 2nd lieutenant in the 1st Massachusetts Cavalry, Charles experienced a grave injury during battle. A bullet pierced his left shoulder, narrowly missing his spine. Though Charles ultimately recovered, the possibility of paralysis loomed during his healing process.

These personal experiences of grief and the impact of war left a lasting imprint on Longfellow’s life and work, shaping the themes and emotions conveyed in his poetry.

The poem “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poignant and meaningful piece that resonates with readers even today. Written on December 25, 1863, it reflects Longfellow’s personal experiences of grief and loss during the tumultuous times of the American Civil War.

In the midst of his own sorrow and the turmoil of the war, Longfellow’s words convey a powerful message of hope and resilience. The poem starts with a tone of despair as the bells seem to proclaim nothing but sadness and despair. However, as the poem progresses, it evolves into a message of hope and faith.

Longfellow’s words remind us that even in the darkest of times, there is still a glimmer of hope and the possibility of peace. The poem serves as a reminder to keep faith and to stand strong, even in the face of adversity.

“I heard the Bells on Christmas Day” continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration, reminding us of the enduring spirit of Christmas and the power of hope.

And in despair I bowed my head;
“There is no peace on earth,” I said;
“For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men.”
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

As we gather together to celebrate this joyous season of peace and love, I am remembering the timeless words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: “Give what you have. To someone, it may be better than you dare to think.” These profound words serve as a reminder that the smallest acts of kindness and generosity can have a profound impact on someone’s life.

I would like to express a special thank you to my brother, Brian, whose heartfelt performance of “I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day” brings a sense of warmth and connection to our celebration. I invite you to sing along with Brian and me, as our voices unite through the magic of technology and WIFI.

In the spirit of togetherness, I extend warm wishes from my house to yours. May the bells of hope and love resonate within your hearts not only during this festive season, but throughout the year. May this holiday season be filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments shared with family and friends.

Rebecca

The Meeting by Katherine Mansfield

Katherine Mansfield, an acclaimed writer and poet, is known for her exceptional storytelling and deep exploration of human emotions. Her poetry, just like her prose, offers a profound and unique perspective on life, love, and the complexities of relationships, delving into the depths of human experiences. Her poems touch upon themes of longing, loss, and the transient nature of existence. Through her evocative language and vivid imagery, she invites us to contemplate the intricacies of our inner worlds and the emotions that shape them.

The Book Dialogue Podcast

My sister, Sarah and I host a podcast dedicated to poetry and books - The Book Dialogue. We love of all things literature and enjoy connecting with others to share the joy of reading.

In a recent podcast, Sarah discussed and recited Katherine Mansfield’s poem “The Meeting.” The poem’s language and imagery allow listeners to immerse themselves in contemplation evoked by her words. Katherine Mansfield creates an emotional connection with words that lingers long after the poem is read.

The Meeting

By Katherine Mansfield

We started speaking,
Looked at each other, then turned away.
The tears kept rising to my eyes.
But I could not weep.
I wanted to take your hand
But my hand trembled.
You kept counting the days
Before we should meet again.
But both of us felt in our hearts
That we parted for ever and ever.
The ticking of the little clock filled the quiet room.
“Listen,” I said. “It is so loud,
Like a horse galloping on a lonely road,
As loud as a horse galloping past in the night.”
You shut me up in your arms.
But the sound of the clock stifled our hearts’ beating.
You said, “I cannot go: all that is living of me
Is here for ever and ever.”
Then you went.
The world changed. The sound of the clock grew fainter,
Dwindled away, became a minute thing.
I whispered in the darkness. “If it stops, I shall die.”

Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson - The Book Dialogue

S5 E2: Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson Welcome to The Book Dialogue. Thank you for listening in! Leonardo da Vinci's multifaceted genius continues to inspire audiences centuries after his time. In this podcast conversation, Sarah discusses Walter Isaacson's book on the legendary artist, scientist, and thinker. She candidly shares the profound takeaways from Walter Isaacson's book that has deeply resonated with her and influenced her life. Tune in to gain insight into how Leonardo da Vinci's legacy has impacted Sarah's perspective and approach to creativity, innovation, and life itself. Thank You for Listening In! We extend our heartfelt gratitude for joining us on The Book Dialogue! Walter Isaacson's illuminating work, "Leonardo da Vinci" is a compelling read. We hope you found inspiration and insight in our discussion about the enduring legacy of such a multifaceted genius. Your presence and engagement make these conversations truly special. Thank you for being a part of our community. Sarah & Rebecca