London Days A Book of Reminiscences   By: Arthur Warren

London Days A Book of Reminiscences by Arthur Warren is an engaging and vivid account of the author's experiences in London during the early 20th century. From the moment I started reading, I was transported back in time, wandering the bustling streets of London alongside Warren.

One of the standout qualities of this book is the author's ability to capture the essence of the city, its people, and its ever-evolving landscapes. Through Warren's detailed and evocative descriptions, I could almost feel the rumble of the carriages, smell the aroma of freshly brewed tea, and hear the lively chatter of the crowds. His ability to recreate these sensory experiences truly immersed me in the time period and left me yearning to visit London myself.

What makes this memoir particularly fascinating is the breadth of Warren's experiences. Through his anecdotes, we gain insights into various facets of London life, from the bustling marketplaces and theaters to the quiet corners of the city where he found solace. I particularly enjoyed his accounts of encounters with iconic figures of the era, such as Virginia Woolf and T.S. Eliot, which added an extra layer of depth to the narrative.

Warren's writing style is both accessible and elegant, making this book an enjoyable read for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike. The chapters are well-structured, with a balance of personal anecdotes and historical context that kept me engaged throughout. Furthermore, his honest reflections on personal struggles and the challenges of living in a rapidly changing city provided a relatable touch that added emotional depth to the narrative.

While London Days A Book of Reminiscences is primarily a personal account, it also serves as a valuable historical document. Through Warren's lens, we witness the progression and transformation of London over the years, from the grandeur of Edwardian society to the devastation of World War I. This book offers readers a unique perspective on the city's social, cultural, and political upheavals during this tumultuous period in history.

In conclusion, London Days A Book of Reminiscences by Arthur Warren is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a nostalgic journey through the streets of London. With its vivid descriptions, diverse anecdotes, and historical insights, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the city's rich history and the personal experiences of its inhabitants. Warren's storytelling abilities transport the reader to a bygone era, capturing both the charm and challenges of life in old London.

First Page:

I First Glimpses of London . . . . . . . 1 II London in the Late Seventies . . . . . 9 III A Norman Interlude . . . . . . . . . . 18 IV I Take the Plunge . . . . . . . . . . . 28 V Browning and Moscheles . . . . . . . . 42 VI Patti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 VII John Stuart Blackie . . . . . . . . . . 79 VIII Lord Kelvin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 IX Tennyson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 X Gladstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 XI Whistler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157 XII Henry Drummond . . . . . . . . . . . . 170 XIII Sir Henry Irving . . . . . . . . . . . 185 XIV Henry M. Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . 205 XV George Meredith . . . . . . . . . . . . 222 XVI Parnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240 XVII "Le Brav' Général" . . . . . . . . . ... Continue reading book >>