Where the Streets have No Name

A casual street-sign store at the local Council depot, central Edinburgh  ... witnessed by the Emperor on his way home from work.  

If all the names are here, is there streets out there without names? 

Crossing Ocean - The New World

[Crossing Oceans the Emperor explored new and strange lands - New York, Nov 2014]

"It is unlikely that the Atlantic Ocean is divided into two seas, thus being separated by isthmuses so narrow and that prevent the circumnavigation; it is more likely that it is one confluent and continuous sea. For those who undertook circumnavigation, and turned back without having achieved their purpose, say that they were made to turn back, not because of any continent that stood in their way and hindered their further advance, inasmuch as the sea still continued open as before, but because of their destitution and loneliness. This theory accords better, too, with the behaviour of the ocean, that, in respect of the ebb and flow of the tides; everywhere, at all events, the same principle, or else one that does not vary much, accounts for the changes both of high tide and low tide, as would be the case if there movements were produced by one sea and were the result of one cause."

Strabo, Geography, I.8 

Undertaking great personal hardship and danger (Economy Class) the Emperor recently enjoyed a personal exploration of the New World. In imperial procession on the Eastern seaboard, it was fascinating to see the great metropolis cities of Boston and New York. This history-rich part of the New World was fascinating and it was wonderful to experience a culture that is at the same time, both similar and yet so different to the Old World that I know so well. 

The only regret was that I did not have more time to explore these vast and fascinating lands. But hopefully there is always next time ...    

Small indulgences, as simple as the iconic pastrami bagel were greatly enjoyed. 

'Everything is bigger in America' and so was the Emperor after a week or so of eating great food. Kindly toured by a local guide and friend the imperial retinue was spoiled for great places to see and great food to experience. 

Back on the treadmill when I get to Blighty, but I really look forward to future visits. 

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N.B Its worth noting that the internet is sprinkled with references of Romans having reached the North Americas in ancient times. The quality of some of these theories varies greatly and ranges from the tantalising to the sheer outlandish. But they are all entertaining to read. 

Rustic Eating - Ferrara Italy

A rustic lunch of considerable quality enjoyed in the beautiful walled town of Ferrara, Italy. 

The following main course was the regionally famous pumpkin and sage ravioli (Cappellacci di Zucca). The best and most enjoyable meal I have ever had in the old country. 

As part of a month long honeymoon from Venice to Syracuse, the old walled city of Ferrara was a stand-out memory for this Emperor. 

Such a chilled University town with loads of old history and culture. 

I very much hope to return one day. 

Christmas Feasting

The Emperor has derived much enjoyment from the recent holiday season.

Sumptuous and delectable banquets have been prepared for the enjoyment of the Imperial Court.

[The Emperor's own Christmas dinner - prepared by his own hand - was received with high acclaim by the Court]

Large scale entertainments were provided at Imperial expense for the entertainment of the masses.

The Imperial residence was adorned with all the pomp and finery that the season dictated.

Seasonal gifts and presents were exchanged throughout the palace and polite society.

Nero and Horse Racing

 

[Imperial Horse Racing at the Christmas Market - Edinburgh 2012]
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"From his earliest years he had a special passion for horses and talked constantly about the games in the Circus, though he was forbidden to do so. Once when he was lamenting with his fellow pupils the fate of a charioteer of the "Greens," who was dragged by his horses, and his preceptor scolded him, he told a lie and pretended that he was talking of Hector. At the beginning of his reign he used to play every day with ivory chariots on a board, and he came from the country to all the games, even the most insignificant, at first secretly, and then so openly that no one doubted that he would be in Rome on that particular day. He made no secret of his wish to have the number of prizes increased, and in consequence more races were added and the performance was continued to a late hour, while the managers of the troupes no longer thought it worth while to produce their drivers at all except for a full day's racing. He soon longed to drive a chariot himself and even to show himself frequently to the public; so after a trial exhibition in his gardens before his slaves and the dregs of the populace, he gave all an opportunity of seeing him in the Circus Maximus, one of his freedmen dropping the napkin from the place usually occupied by the magistrates."

 

Suetonius, Life of Nero, 22

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Lamp Postmodernism

[Obscure stickers appear on Edinburgh lamp posts]

Stay vigilant citizens. 

What a Relief!

Rude's The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 (or "La Marseillaise")

 

The most famous of the four reliefs on the faces of the arch flanking the opening, this emotional composition depicts the French people rallying against enemies from abroad.

 

These citizens, both nude and in classical armor, are roused to patriotic fervor by the Roman goddess of war, Bellona, who has also been identified as a personification of Liberty.

 

This grouping so aroused spectators' patriotism that the work became known as "La Marseillaise," the French national anthem written in 1792 - the same year as the departure of the volunteers.

Who could resist the call to protect the new Republic from its monarchist enemies of the people?