My husband went to my Kolkata home a couple of days ago and I wanted him to bring some of my old books from there. While packing the books he had no idea what he was bringing, and what pleasure will I get out of one of the books. When I started unpacking the bag I found my first atlas. It was bought probably when I was in class four or five, a few centuries ago (kidding, I am not that old!), and I can't believe that I still have it! This is the twenty fifth edition of The Oxford School Atlas, and is not quite relevant in today's times as the maps have The U.S.S.R., West Germany and East Germany in them. But, this particular map above is a special one as this is where my dreams of visiting Europe began.
While learning the names of the countires and their capital cities I used to quietly tell myself that I will visit these countries someday. My first attractions were Italy and Sicily probably because of their shapes. At the age of thirteen I guess that was a good way to choose favourites! My father taught me that Italy was the boot and Silcily was the football.
While going through the pages of the atlas a lot of memories came alive. It was fun to note that I have visited six countries in Europe already, and my dreams are still alive to visit the boot and the football!
2 comments:
Transported me back to schooldays...was fascinated with these strange lands...still am. All the best on your travel sojourns. And the nice part would be reading all about them. :)
Wow... that was the fastest comment to come by! Thanks Suchandra! Isn't it fun to suddenly find something from childhood? Sure you'll visit some of the places that you dream of. I am counting days when my little Aanya will grow and we can travel together. Till that time I am happy dreaming and wishing and hoping and writing... Cheers!
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