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Perspective

A Modern Day Lent

By Xanthe de Wesselow

Expanding from its roots in ancient Pagan rituals, Lent has evolved into a sacred period within the Christian tradition. Manifesting itself as a 40 day period, it now serves as an engagement in special spiritual preparation of prayer, penance and abstinence in anticipation of Easter. Although modern interpretations are often associated with restrictive trends and fad dieting, such as the removal of any form of refined sugar (otherwise known as joy) from our lives, the Lenten season was traditionally a more rigorous religious observance characterised by a strict fast, broken only with a simple meal devoid of meat, eggs, dairy, and alcohol after sunset, accompanied by deep introspection and prayer.

Historically, it was therefore a necessary custom to deplete all existing supplies of rich, fatty products such as butter, milk, sugar, and eggs the day prior to Lent, hence Shrove Tuesday’s worldwide nickname ‘Pancake Day’. Ash Wednesday then arrives after sufficient ‘shriving’, or presenting oneself to a priest for confession, marking a significant tradition in preparation for the Lenten season. However, in today’s money, Shrove Tuesday has been overshadowed by commercial interests, as supermarkets and societal pressures now lead us to believe it should be a profitable day of excessive spending and materialistic home decorations that can be religiously documented on social media. The once meaningful observance has transformed into a commercialised phenomenon, where the true essence of the tradition, such as the allegories behind each ingredient, is often lost amidst the consumerism.

The irony reaches new heights as your local Tesco will fool you into stocking up on three different types of cookie-based spread one day, only to be bombarded by endorsements from a plethora of wellness influencers and Instagram gut health gurus the next, promoting kimchi and kombucha as essential Lenten ‘healthy habits’. Paradoxically, lest us forget the Easter eggs that have dominated the shelves since as early as January 2nd, blurring the lines between seasonal observances and consumerist indulgence. It’s no wonder any form of New Year’s Resolution crumbles by the time Blue Monday arrives, yet another marketing ploy to capitalise on the wellness industry (but have you tried meditation?). Such is the absurdity of our commercialised culture, where tradition and spirituality often take a backseat to profit-driven agendas.

Lent, in its contemporary guise, appears like a slap in the face and a mocking reminder following as if to say, ‘your will power didn’t last very long then… fancy another go?’. This time, however, we are taunted by the tiny glimpse of promised bait dangling 39 days away, symbolised by mini-egg-infused delicacies and gold foil-wrapped bunnies. There is no denying it is bizarre. How, in two thousand years, has society transformed a period of quiet reflection into a trendy, competitive game of social media one-upmanship; a strategic rivalry of who’s giving up what? Even better if you are taking up something and actually sticking to it. I mean who does that?

So, in our body image, diet obsessed culture, we have come to see Lent as a period perfect for purging ourselves of something we think we can’t live without for just long enough. Then, when we’ve counted down the days and proved our virtuosity and self-will, we can reason with our inner voice to return to our pre-Lent addictions and maybe even binge them. The chocolate bars, coffee, alcohol, scroll holes and internet shopping can return once more, and even better, we feel justified to do it all in abundance because ‘you deserve it, you’ve abstained the whole of Lent!’. First, of course, there’s the chance to baske in the glory of virtual applause, as your Lenten sacrifice repeatedly merits itself under meticulously curated hashtags. It’s a vicious cycle of self-deprivation followed by indulgence, all punctuated by the invisible reward of a distant validation, a far cry from the 40 days Lent was intended to be. Nothing says spiritual enlightenment nor religious observance like an Instagram diary of temporary abstinence…

In our digital age, it has become increasingly fashionable to not only give up something for the Lenten season but also to take up new practices, many of which feed into the continually booming health and wellness industry. From committing to ‘40 sea swims’ or ‘40 days of yoga’, these endeavours are extensions to the popular New Year’s Resolutions that saturate social media each January. Whether we find ourselves embracing ice baths or daily stretching routines, we unwittingly become swept up in the Lenten frenzy, as it seems the most important aspect of these trends is to tell everyone you’re doing it (otherwise what’s the point?). Ultimately, the essence of Lent has been overshadowed by the need to showcase any such endeavour. Our younger selves might have often joked about giving up Lent for Lent. Now, I think we need to give up talking and digitally broadcasting about Lent. Perhaps then, the season would be one of growth and reflection should we want to participate, rather than a form of superficial self-validation.

Are we missing the point altogether? The Christian Church offers us almsgiving, prayer and fasting as the three pillars to focus on during Lent. In layman’s terms, we’re advised to give charity, thanks and abstain from food and drink for the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the desert and enduring temptation by Satan. Yet, here we are in 2024 taking a more self-absorbed approach than ever. We’ve moved so far away from personal reflection and spiritual growth that Lent is now more a spectacle of performative piety. Forget the sacrificial chocolate bar or glass of wine, it seems the public declarations and digital validation are what has become of this annual Christian practice.

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Reviews

Elvis isn’t Dead, and Apparently Neither are Scouting For Girls

By Xanthe de Wesselow

It’s a Saturday night. Big city lights. “Bride to Be” sashes scatter every street corner with hen-dos en masse. A friend and I are venturing to Geordie land for a big night out.

We’re off to see Scouting For Girls at Newcastle’s O2 City Hall.

Dinner is booked in a cosy Italian on Dean Street. This sets the tone nicely and we imagine we’re on a hot date until the bill arrives, upon which we return to our cripplingly single reality and regretfully split the damage, taking it in turns to play Apple Pay roulette before we submit to a slightly embarrassing yet unsurprising decline on the first tap.

Remarking on Newcastle’s club scene looming large in comparison to our favoured Durham-bed-by-2:30 night out, we venture forth arm in arm and join the enormous queue that pours out of City Hall; practising lyrics and guessing the set list to pass the time. By the time two (slightly uninspiring) warm up acts have played and tiresomely repeated their Instagram handles to a somewhat uninterested audience, Clemmie has sore feet and I’m beginning to regret not watching Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging with her the night before, as I internally question how many lyrics I will actually know.

Revealing their latest retro album cover (The Place We Used To Meet) backdrop, the curtain eventually comes up and our qualms are dissipated as Roy Stride leads the band on stage with a palpable bundle of energy at his disposal. That undeniable boy band-esque melody strikes up, and soon the whole auditorium is cheering to “there’s a hole in my heart” before joining in by the time it’s “…and you’re the missing part” in a sort of teenage fangirl frenzy. Yet this is not exactly Newcastle’s demographic tonight. Far from it, the audience lacks a common denominator and instead we are surrounded by a varied multitude of people. Older couples, drunken mid-thirties friend groups, high-pitched, screeching women head to toe in pristine merch as well as the odd fifteen-year-old girl possie who are assiduous in their mission to spend the entire three hours sending filtered videos of themselves to their Snapchat fanbase. This eclectic mixture is a nod to Scouting For Girls’ longevity and deserved recognition that continues to stand the test of time.

The gig centres around this very fact. The band transport us on a whirlwind tour of their various albums in which Stride breezily mocks their youthful naivety during the early days (when he’s not singing or darting around the stage). Their humble roots are visibly touching: Ellard and Stride were Cub Scouts comrades while Churchouse met the lead singer on their first day at Queensmead School, West London.

We go back in time to 2007 – the release year of their debut album – to relive some of their teenage bedroom tracks where they would play together after school (newly tee-total Stride points to the latest album cover’s top floor window of his childhood home, cheekily telling us that it had to be open because he was always smoking out of it). The amateur sound of the early days are mimicked when an old, basic drum set and a couple of acoustic guitars appear, and all three men take centre stage as they nostalgically play It’s Not About You, I wish I was James Bond and Michaela Strachan from their debut album. This is when the crowd interaction reaches its peak: the crowd is split down the middle and we aggressively ping pong lyrics left to right, right to left, in a bid to be the loudest.

Peter Ellard, the unassuming drummer who holds each song together like a stoic pillar post at the back, takes the right side while Greg Churchouse, the bassist who’s sporting a wide smile that reaches the edges of his khaki baker boy hat, takes the left. Stride stands diplomatically behind his keyboard in the middle and tells Churchouse’s side we are having more fun when we shout ‘Just for the day’ louder than Ellard’s group (rather like that slightly over-enthusiastic deputy head figure at school, who would eagerly feed on the power trip during a morning’s assembly). It’s this charming schoolboy-ish crowd interaction coupled with the criminally catchy, serotonin filled songs that make this concert so euphoric.

Another highlight is Posh Girls. We are informed that the three ‘magic’ words are boys at school before Stride launches into the iconic opening bars. By the first chorus he has bounced his way up to the balcony, armed with a selfie stick. He’s now filming the crowd interaction as we enthusiastically chant the magic words expected of us, as though we’re in an artificial world where Roy Stride is our master. This time he plays the floor off against the balcony (“floor cheer, balcony cheer, floor, balcony, floor, balcony…”) and we hardly know whether he’s the lead singer of a boy band or the principal boy of a pantomime – all the same, Clemmie and I are just two of the of the hundreds of people immersed into this happy, childlike, dream land for as long as we’re robotically generated to follow Stride’s commands.

It’s true, his electric stage presence is making him the star of the show, although Churchouse and Ellard appear to be having just as much fun as their wide-eyed fans. As for newbie Nick Tsang, it soon becomes clear he is some sort of God of the music industry – his expertise on the guitar is wheeled out as and when for all the big stars in need of ‘elevating their sound’ or ‘enhancing their tracks’ (Sheeran, Capaldi and The Backstreet Boys have all been prone to the Tsang drug). Stride jests that a front row die hard, going by Louisa, knows the songs better than this fresh-faced guitarist himself, who simply grins and nods in return. His appearance on this tour may initially seem subtle yet it certainly packs a punch.

Whether or not it’s just another day at the office for Tsang doesn’t matter; his upbeat performance is adding a new dimension to a timeless boy band and no doubt a generous pay cheque helps to keep any glimpses of superficial showmanship at bay. But then again, who wouldn’t be having fun playing iconic English indie-pop music with this illustrious trio?

The night goes on in much the same way, with evenly interspersed songs from the latest album The Place We Used to Meet, which manages to go back to the band’s roots and hit the same, life-affirming notes as all the infamous favourites. This somehow amplifies the success of the older records, which come as a celebratory treat when the whole audience rejoices in knowing all the lyrics.

There is a rather low key ending when they sing the album’s opening song, Glow – a slower, melodic number. But the crowd isn’t easily fooled and it’s only a few repetitions of “One More Song” before the four men appear back in position and strike into a cover of Thank you and Goodnight, specifically for the aforementioned Louisa, who is screeching chaotically at the front.

Then, the moment we’ve all been waiting for finally arrives. With the triumphant opening chords, everyone erupts, relishing in the playful atmosphere for the final time. The pure animation that is felt in the room as we all sing in unison: “she’s so lovely, she’s so lovely, she’s so lovelyyy” is remarkable, and a true token of their songwriting genius.

Having felt hungover and slightly sorry for ourselves at the start of the evening, we left City Hall that night feeling quite the opposite. Scouting For Girls has entertainment, lightness, and stage presence in abundance and I urge anyone and everyone to buy a ticket for their 2024 tour. Having fun? Feeling down? Need to laugh? Just listen to Scouting For Girls. Their music is a kind of nostalgic solace that can be the remedy you never knew you needed.

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Travel

How to Spend a Weekend in Barcelona

There is something about booking a last-minute trip that makes it even more perfect when you seamlessly arrive without the excessive build-up of unnecessary holiday admin. Just a few days after browsing sky scanner and stumbling across an Airbnb gem, this summer three friends and I found ourselves strolling the sun-drenched, colourful streets of Barcelona – where cultured urban life meets beach escape for the perfect city break. 

 

STAY

Budget dependent, Barcelona offers many popular hotels, apartments and hostels and if you are relatively central, it is a walking-friendly city with scooters or buses on hand if your feet need a rest.

Our Airbnb (Central Apartments Carrer de Bailèn, 125) ticked every box – affordable, comfortable, helpful owner and an all-important balcony just big enough for the four of us to squeeze round a table playing shithead, Aperol in hand – what more could four girls want on their last-minute city break?

The hotel industry is not lacking in this beautiful city, and without staying in any myself, it is hard to single out one as they all have a lot going for them with their stylish décor and relaxing rooftops. For a chic, boutique feel, Hotel Neri Relais in the heart of the Gothic Quarter caught my eye.

Meanwhile for more student priced accommodation, St Christopher’s Hostel is known as having the best atmosphere; thanks to its in-house bar known as Belushi where the cheap drinks and friendly atmosphere make for the perfect place to meet people.

 

Our Hostel, Carrer de Bailèn
Belushi's, via HostelWorld
Hotel Neri Relais, Gothic Quarter (via Trip Advisor)
EAT

As one of Spain’s most popular international hubs, the gastronomic offerings in Barcelona know no bounds, offering up every cuisine under the sun. My recommendations are to stick with the most authentic tapas spots in order to really absorb the best of the city’s flavours.

So, if you are in the market for the best patatas bravas, pan con tomate and croquetas you can find, heading to the El Born area is your best bet.

For properly authentic tapas, it does not get much better than La Cova Fumada, a successful family run restaurant dating back to 1945Despite the complete lack of a sign outside or a menu on display, this not so well-kept secret of a spot simply leaves its marketing down to the queue of hungry lunch-goers which pours out onto the street along with the palpable atmosphere from within. Coupled with charismatic staff and delicious food, not to mention the ‘bomba’ (deep fried ball of potato and spicy meat) which was created here, there is no doubt that this is a must-try spot while in Barcelona. 

Similarly, Xampanyet serves as a slice of Barcelona history with its deeply rooted family dishes contained within the colourful four walls. Its cosy atmosphere and simplistic dishes are a glimpse of tapas origins, which are joyfully washed down with a glass of cava, or Xampanyet – its own homemade version of the sparkling white wine. 

I could go on listing glorious little restaurants that dish up my all-time favourite cuisine, but for now I will just say that Cal Pep, Bormuth and Bodega la Puntual all deserve a mention too.

Alternatively, for those less fond of traditional Spanish food, Flax & Kale is the place for a highly instagrammable selection of vegan/vegetarian small plates in a stunning garden courtyard while Parking Pizza is without doubt as close as you will get to Italy while on the Spanish coast with its ultimate sourdough pizzas. 

Finally, if a hungover brunch is the order of the day, Billy Brunch’s mouth-watering menu is not one to miss while Demasié is an indulgent bakery as tasty as it aesthetic (be prepared to come across various influencers posing alongside their skinny oat matcha and vegan cinnamon bun…). Onna coffee is a lovely space to enjoy a specialty cup of coffee before you amble down Passeig de Gracia which sits just next door; setting you up with some caffeine before some retail therapy along this celebrated shopping avenue. 

DRINK

Like many European cities, Barcelona suggests a heightened view with a cocktail in hand is one of the best ways to see the city. You will be spoilt for choice with its vast array of rooftop bars on offer.

Terraza Colón at Colón Hotel is rooted in the busy streets of the Gothic quarter, yet as you ascend seven floors you reach a surprisingly calming terrace to enjoy a drink while looking onto the ancient spires of Barcelona Cathedral. Similarly, to admire Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia from a height, Terraza Ayre at Ayre Rosellón Hotel is a stunning rooftop bar offering drinks, tapas and a direct lens at Barcelona’s most iconic landmark.

Meanwhile, Bobby’s Free boasts a slightly pricier cocktail menu yet the extra pennies pay for the unique atmosphere in this barber-shop disguised speakeasy bar. Its interior transports you to a different era, and its clientele has a sense of exclusivity thanks to a password entry system… a quick Google should do it. For the full effect, visit Bobby’s Free on Thursday or Sunday for live music.

Terraza Colón via The Rooftop Guide
DANCE

Razzmatazz is the household name on Barcelona’s club scene… popular for a night out in a big group with five different rooms and enormous capacity. From sing along classics to live performers and drag queens, there is something for everyone.

Bling Bling and Jamboree are other popular choices, with the latter offering more of an intimate live blues and jazz feel.

 

VISIT
Sagrada Familia

It might seem too obvious, but whether you are a Gaudí fan or not, the iconic Sagrada Familia is simply breathtaking. Modernism, late Gothic and Art Nouveau styles effortlessly combine to form a cathedral like nothing else you have ever seen and that is only the exterior. Definitely pay the few euros it costs to enter inside; it is unbelievably beautiful and without doubt was the highlight of my trip.

Similarly, Gaudi’s architecture dominates the city with his Casa Batlló and Casa Mila apartments and unique Parque Guell – all worth seeing, and the latter makes a great trip for a picnic or even a sundowner.

Picasso Museum 

Avid museum goer or not, the Picasso Museum strikes the perfect balance of being interesting yet a suitably digestible size to fit into your schedule of sightseeing. The museum’s route takes you chronologically through Picasso’s life and different artistic eras, ending up in a colourful room full of his most iconic cubist paintings, having encountered his realism, blue period and expressionism works along the way.

 

Picasso Museum
Casa Batlló
Sagrada Familia
Palo Market Fest in Poblenou 

If there’s one thing you take from this guide, please book your Barcelona trip for the   first weekend of the month if possible. This way you can make the most of the Palo Market Fest held just north of the centre in Poblenou. A frenzy of amazing street food, shops, bars, and live music makes this an atmospheric little bubble away from the relentless pace of the city centre.

Playa de la Barceloneta 

This beach gets busy quickly, as tourists and locals alike flock to the sea breeze away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city. Still, it is a charming beach where you can work on your tan pre or post exploring the city’s hotspots.

Palo Market Fest

Side note: I have made a conscious effort to avoid labelling our little last-minute city break as a spontaneous trip. In my view, as soon as one dares to recognise an element of spontaneity, it simply no longer exists. Don’t be fooled by the endless ‘spontaneous’ (or worse ‘sponny’) trips that seem to litter themselves across social media, almost as if they are meticulously planned?