How often do we take places for granted? When we walk by the same place every day, we become desensitized to the beauty and majesty it holds. After a month in London Program, we, as students, already take Trafalgar Square for granted. We use it simply as a landmark and point of reference. We can even consider it an annoyance when attempting to dash through the crowds to find a quick lunch. But Trafalgar Square, for many tourists, is one of the top ten places to see and document in their travels. In the heart of London, Trafalgar Square gives us access to a vast array of British culture, from the National Gallery to a view of Parliament. I find that lunchtime is the best opportunity to experience this microcosm of the city wide melting pot. Most days I strike up a conversation with tourists and locals alike by simply asking if I can take their picture. Since I like to travel alone, I always have to ask someone to take my picture with my camera (while praying that they do not run away with it). By taking photos of tourists in Trafalgar Square, I attempt to pay forward the kindness that was shown me on my trips.
Even with these lunchtime explorations, I took Trafalgar Square for granted until I was leaving the London Centre on a Saturday afternoon, and I came face to face with my first (and only) anti-American encounter. After passing many police officers outside of the London Centre, I turned the corner to see Trafalgar Square flooded with protestors. While mostly peaceful, a few of the posters spoke specifically of the evils of American ideals. After casually (and cautiously) snapping a few shots, being sure to stay out of the protestors’ way, I spotted a woman dressed traditionally, and I ventured to ask a few questions. She explained her reasons for attending the demonstration, and educated me for nearly half an hour on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Then, after I thanked her for her time and knowledge, I ventured one last question: “May I take your picture”? She was thrilled, explaining to me that demonstrations gauge their success by the amount of publicity they receive. She simply asked me to leave the demonstration with the knowledge and pictures, and use them to educate others.
During days and weekends, Trafalgar Square floods with people constantly on themove through the city. And, rain or shine, the Square culturally educates people all day. And then night falls… and Trafalgar Square takes on a whole new feel. From the evening traffic sounds to the colourfully lit buildings, the Square never ceases its fast paced, cultural significance. As a theatre major, I am thrilled to see as many shows as possible while in London. And I have made it a routine to stop through the Square on nights when I am headed to see a show, just to experience the change in atmosphere from day to night.
Many of my London courses, especially Images of Britain through the Arts, give wonderful and diverse suggestions on where to go to experience British history, culture and diversity. Trafalgar Square adds a great supplement to the classroom by combining all of those elements in a central location.
