The middle of August brings, for me, hazy sunshine evening walks, a very loose connection to what day of the week it is, a sense of gratitude for the long days and my friends as well as a softly burgeoning sense of anticipation for my favourite season: autumn.
Having deleted TikTok (again), I’m back on the books as well as art and have some things to recommend.
Words
I’m always looking for fresh insights into the human experience and was lucky enough to come across a few voices I had not read before. I was also recommended a very good book.
‘How to be a Liberal’ by Ian Dunt – insightful take on individuality, freedom and choice as well as a fascinating overview of social and political history through the lens of liberalism.
Not sure how I haven’t come across him before but David Cain has a popular blog which (very obviously to me) more famous people like James Clear and Oliver Burkeman owe a huge, yet unspoken, debt to.
Lots to enjoy on there but I particularly recommend:
‘Why do I always have a crush on someone’
This was a bit of a game changer for me this summer. It really helped me make sense of some of my bigger, more complex feelings.
There may be words from me on the topic of new relationship energy in The Washington Post later this year – watch this space! In advance of that, you can always read the piece which inspired the journalist to get in touch and interview me.
New relationship energy – how NRE can be felt across your life and how to enjoy it
And keep an eye out for my first collection of erotica which is being published this autumn.
Art
Discover, as I so delightedly have, the wonder of Vanessa Bell.
Visit Milton Keynes to see a larger, solo show this autumn, go to The Courtauld for the small show or see some magical pieces at Tate M in the Studio collection.
Oh, and prebook Van Gogh at the NG. Centre-piece of the 200 years anniversary celebrations, it’s going to be extraordinary.
Music
I remain obsessed with Deftones and Crosses and metal/nu-metal generally. Seeing Korn in mid August was amazing. And I still love Fred Durst and his-about-to-tarmac-the-M25 vibes.
I recommend you check out A Perfect Circle (‘The Outsider’ is my favourite track), as well as Beak who are playing London in the autumn. And it continues to be ‘Brat summer’ – listen to Von Dutch for the ultimate late summer energy kick.
What words, music or art do you recommend?
