Oxford 10: Autumn

The temperature is getting progressively cooler; the leaves are slowly beginning to turn; rain showers are becoming increasingly frequent; and the wind has picked up considerably. Fortunately, I absolutely adore the brisk weather. The entire skyscape can change completely within a matter of twenty minutes because the winds are so fierce at times. 'Tis the season of coats and scarves and sweaters and jackets.

On 16 October, the OSAP (Oxford Study Abroad Program) group took a trip to Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, the residence of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. The property includes 105 acres of gardens and parks, and the house appears in the recent film version of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice as the exterior of Pemberley, the home of Mr. Darcy. I have not seen the film, but I did very much enjoy the book when I read it in high school.

Earlier in the term, we visited Blenheim Palace, residence of the Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of the former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill. Both properties were absolutely gorgeous.

On 20 October, I saw Howl's Moving Castle (in Japanese with English subtitles) at the local Picture House. I continue to enjoy Hayao Miyazaki's films for their compelling and 'realistic' portrayal of the magical, the fantastical, and the absurd (each of these being quite distinct, by the way).

And speaking of films, I saw a poster for the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and was appalled to see, smack-dab in the middle, front and center, the white witch in her sleigh being pulled by POLAR BEARS. There are NO polar bears in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The witch's sleigh is supposed to be pulled by REINDEER. My father will, of course, scoff at my nitpickiness (and, admittedly, there are more important things in this life to get riled up about)--but POLAR BEARS!?!

And by the way, if you have not read the Narnia Chronicles by C.S. Lewis, or if you have not read them in a very long time, do pick them up again and refresh yourself. I'm rereading them as part of my seminar in C.S. Lewis here at Oxford and am thoroughly enjoying it. For all ages, they are excellent books.

Most of my time continues to be occupied in reading and research (which I am enjoying) and in this past week a great deal of time was spent in the lower reading room of the Radcliffe Camera, part of the central Bodleian complex. I do continue to stress a little over my work; probably the most difficult aspect has to do with judging how much time I have available to accomplish each task and pacing myself properly so as to balance all my projects.

Such is the state of affairs at present. God is still faithful and good. Until next time, blessings,