Memoria Copia

Arguably Isherwood's seminal work.  A collection of stories offering a semi-biographical insight into pre-war Berlin life.  Sometimes living on the fringes, Isherwood delivers an account of daily activities over a couple of years. He creates a cast of very believable characters, with immersive descriptions that allows the reader to experience his time in Berlin, from over his shoulder.  

A little old fashioned, but highly recommended for anyone who wants to escape for a while into someone else's world.  

Franz Kafka is, in some ways, a cliché.  Someone or something can be 'Kafkaesque'.  To fully understand that over-used term, this book will help peel back some of the layers of one of the 20th century's major literary figures.  Bohemian in both upbringing and nature, Kafka's works come in equal parts inspiration and melancholy.  

Another biography of the English  romantic poet, John Keats.  Specifically focused on his final journey to Italy in an attempt to get through the winter of 1820 and delay his inevitable demise from consumption (tuberculosis), it offers a new insight into both Keats and his small circle of friends and acquaintances.  

It is beautiful written and, unlike other biographies of Keats, clearly incredibly well, and independently,  researched.  With anecdotes and contextual historic backgrounds, to give a well-rounded account of his final months.  

Mr. Bourdain's first publication that exploded both his fame and the other side of the doors of the restaurant industry. 

​

A brutally honest retrospective of his early life up to his first foray into television.  A must for anyone wanting an education into the realities of professional kitchens and a troubled being's perspective on life's realities.  

This is my first reading of Hardy, a 19th century English novelist. This is his second work, that would be the start of his Wessex Series. 

​

It provides a snapshot into mid-19th century life in pastoral Britain.  A good escape from the bustle of modernity that allows the reader to become part of a small community; looking over the shoulders of the residents as the seasons pass.  

This is my go-to neoclassical music.  I listen to Einaudi when I shave, when I cook and whenever I need to switch off and take a breath.

​

His musical style is simple, but so effective.  Una Mattina is a particular favorite.  A beautiful work that always brings me peace, solace and enables me to relax.    

​

​

This is a carefully woven mix of biography and site report from two of Britain's most influential pre-Roman archaeological digs.  Even if you're not into archaeology, this is a great read.  Mr. Pryor is, in my opinion, as gifted at writing as he is in archaeo-investigation.  

​

A fascinating read that will fill you with wanderlust.