It was the week where the US became a rogue state by rejecting the Paris climate accord, and one where terror returned to the streets of London. It was a week of upset and sadness, more so than most.
But even as Donald Trump declared that America would walk away from the historic pact to mitigate global warming, agreed in 2015 by 195 nations, China stepped to the climate fore, and Asia-Pacific, European and other countries reaffirmed their determination to protect the planet.
And even as, under grey skies and classic London showers, residents of the capital took a moment to remember those who died last Saturday on the banks of the river Thames while enjoying a pleasant evening, resolve stiffened to understand the causes of radicalisation, and to combat them more effectively.
This latest edition reports extensively on both events on the news and opinion pages, drawing heavily on the Guardian’s insightful analysis and reflective comment.
What you won’t find in this edition, dated 9 June, is reporting on the UK’s general election. The results of Thursday’s vote will be captured and analysed in an expanded 16 June edition of the Guardian Weekly. If you just can’t wait for UK news, please visit theguardian.com for all the latest.
Amid such a turbulent news agenda, we also offer respite.
Our deeper-read Review section profiles Massimo Bottura, Italy’s master chef who has cooked up projects to feed the poor. It weighs up the benefits of walking as acclaimed travel writer Kevin Rushby takes on the Lakes District with Sion Jair, who embraced the trails after a dementia diagnosis. And it kindly showcases a small piece that I’ve penned on the joy and pain of strolling London’s Capital Ring, 126km of walking paths that connect inner London. There’s no better way to truly appreciate the communities that blend and bind together to make this city great.
The Book reviews are especially wonderful this week, with a study of the serenity of swimming, a poignant farewell to the horse, and a consideration of the value of video games (something for my teenage son there!).
The Culture pages capture a celebration of Sgt Pepper, 50 years after the Beatles’ most popular album. And we meet actor Kevin Bacon, who has grown from teen star to symbol of steadfastness, something those in a town as celebrity-centered as Hollywood have come to value.
Back in London, as we regroup from the breaking news to consider the UK election, we’d probably welcome both serenity and stability. A Japanese friend once quoted me this proverb: after the rain, the earth hardens. From adversity comes strength. This ancient idea is being constantly tested these days, it seems.
I would like to thank you, as always, for your support of the Guardian Weekly. We put our readers at the forefront of our efforts. I welcome your feedback on the editorial content, which you can send by clicking here. Take care.
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