We begin the New Year with a throwback to author and performer Celine Hispiche’s journal account of life in Soho as a new season begins…
With the sudden change in weather, I love when Soho goes into its cosy Autumn phase. I feel very lucky to live in the heart of it all and to have Berwick Street on my doorstep. Coffee shops are buzzing with the sweet smell and sound of milk steamers and the yummy aromas from the market’s street food stalls – quite frankly I’m in heaven!
It’s just suddenly dawned on me I’ve been a resident in the West End for over twenty years. Soho is my magnet, my go to, a place that is home. Filled to the brim with history, every step I take whether looking up or down, has a story to tell. As a writer this is the magic juice that inspires me. Both visually and mentally.
As a recent present to myself I bought a membership to the London Library in St James Square. This is my bolt hole where nobody can find or get hold of me. As I shut my front door to make my journey to my creative sanctuary, the adventure begins…
I walk past a green plaque that reads ‘John William Polidori 1795-1821 Poet & Novelist lived and died here’. I always give a smiling nod as I start to imagine Lord Byron knocking on his door (they were friends and rivals) and John ushering him in. Through the window there is a candle illuminating their faces as they drink wine and share their new works.
Winding my way down to Piccadilly Circus I turn right onto Jermyn Street, left into Duke of York Street, which then leads me into St James Square. I walk through the entrance doors, swipe my membership card and YES, I have arrived! Phone off and basics for writing, I shut my locker and make my way to the stacks. Through this metal honeycomb warren, where the ghosts of Virginia Woolf and Dickens are flicking through books, I find a desk and dive into my own creative world.
Reading and writing have always been a great passion of mine and all though friends have remarked “£46.00 a month, that’s expensive for a membership!” I can tell you straight up, you can spend that on a round of drinks in some local establishments.
I have to say it’s money well spent. More importantly, I’ve realised you must do something for yourself that makes YOU feel good.
The next Celine’s Salon takes place on Monday 30th January at Cuts 41 Frith St 7pm £10 on the door. More info CLICK HERE!
Celine’s newly released book Celine’s Salon – The Anthology Vol 2 can be purchased at: www.wordville.net | @celinessalon
Are you a Soho resident with a story to tell? Get in touch to submit an article hello@mysohotimes.co.uk
This article was published in the Autumn issue of My Soho Times. CLICK HERE to view it online!
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