Everyone has a vague high-minded intention to do something cultural over the Christmas holidays, whether it's making a kit of a Leonardo da Vinci flying machine (my own folly I am afraid) or listening to early music over a mince pie. In reality, the mayhem and fun of the season make it hard to even get through the book you were given, let alone get to grips with the influence of Mahler on modern culture.
Never fear, help is at hand. One thing many people do manage is a winter walk, maybe on New Year's Day, so here is a thought – see something cultural in the open air in the remaining days of festivity. Stroll to your local castle or Roman ruin. Take a look at that Celtic cross in a local field. Or if you live in the city, check out that church or the statue in the park.
It is amazing how much art and beauty, how many rich historic remains, can be found just about anywhere in Britain. And perhaps this is my real thought for the approaching New Year. We are lucky to live in an old country. Other times and other tastes have left their mark all over these islands. Often those marks are profoundly mysterious – perhaps you live near a prehistoric monument. Often they are awe-inspiring – are you lucky enough to be near Durham Cathedral or Conwy Castle?
The nice thing about this time of year is that people like, er, me stop telling you about the latest this, the newest that, for a few days. It is a moment to look around, to notice the wonders that have no sell-by date. Nature, history, the architecture of other times, the richness of place. These are the deep joys of culture. It is a good time to pay attention to real treasures. Happy New Year.
