The views from the Millenium Bridge in London are incredible. Opened in 2000s by Queen Elizabeth II, the bridge connects St. Paul’s Cathedral with the Tate Modern gallery. Standing there a few days ago while on holiday, I found myself gazing at the Tower Bridge. I had arrived in the early morning, as the sun was rising. I stood in a spot where the sun was obscured, and stood for a few minutes. How far does the bridge open? How often does it open? I had, and still have, so many questions!
I started to look around. To my side, there was a couple holding each other in their arms as they, too, looked out on the morning sunrise. Then, I wrote in my digital notebook I didn’t even notice the Shard. I was focused on the bridge and the sunrise and the beauty of the colours of the sky. After several days of forecasted rain, being able to look out and see the sun rise was especially delightful. The river, the bridges, and the people, were my main focus.
I am always delighted by how you can look at something for so long and always notice new details. On the river bank, there are countless buildings to see. And different lights in which to see them. On that same bridge days earlier, I heard as someone sang a soft rock song from the other side of the bridge, in a voice that lit up my day as much as the sun rise. I have been there when it has rained in the evening, looking out at the same bright lights.
I learned recently of an artist who painted the same scene at least ten times, eager to capture its details from different perspectives; at different times. On reflection, places can be viewed with infinite perspectives: there are a tapestry of moments that weave together to make a place. There is the morning sunrise with the loving couple, the afternoon with the talented singer, and the evening with rain but dazzling city lights. Same place, different stories.
At home, I sometimes go to admire architecture and realise new details in the brickwork of buildings that I had not noticed. I can be in awe of the same spire I have seen many times. Good design, architecture – art – is infinitely complex. There is always something new to think about. There are new stories to be learned, to be experienced, and to be told.
Next time you are in a place you have been several times before, take note of the moment. Write down a few details – on paper or your phone – and come back to those notes later. Contrast your experiences. See what new things you can notice: the way the light catches the place, the sounds in the background, the temperature, the weather, how you feel. Perhaps, in those notes, you will find a new story to tell.
