The statue is a rare and mythical beast whose long and magnificent history is the envy of less hardy and interior based objects such as bars of soap. Come, gentle reader as I take you on a tour of some of the most interesting specimens in their natural habitat.
Our tour begins in the pleasant and secluded hideaway of the Vice-Chancellor's garden. Situated in the shade of the Main Quad, this is the perfect environment for young statues to thrive and play, free from the tyranny of dive bombing birds. It also happens to be the home of a particularly lithe image of Eros, which can be seen at the end of the path, just above head height. If you look closely it appears as if the little sprite is giving the finger to the heavens. When I am running late on a cold Monday morning it warms my heart to think that Eros, son of the God of love, is just as bitter and angry at the world as I am.
Next up on our tour is the rather odd looking head placed near the entrance to the grafitti tunnel. This strange fellow spits a perpetual stream of water into the pool infront of him. No one can remember why. Although by the look on his face you can bet its for no good reason. Some days a steady stream, others barely a trickle, this man's mysteries baffle even the best of us.
Finally on our tour is the impressive stature of Gilgamesh and his cuddly lion. Oh don't get all heroic, it's cuddly! Look at the way he's holding it! Once again, it is a complete mystery why this statue was considered to be the most relevant and inspiring figure to grace the courtyard in from of the old Women's Gym. Yes there is a plaque, but honestly who is going to read it? I demand answers! If anyone can provide an explanation for Gilgamesh I'd love to hear it.
So thank you, my friends, for joining us on this short tour of all figures metal and stone residing in our fair campus. Take the time to familiarise yourself with their favourtite haunts and locations and you too can be a statue spotter. For enthusiasts, I suggest you get yourselves a pair of binoculars and a clip board to record every single observation. Happy hunting!
Comments
Ooooh, the Epic of Gilgamesh! Module B: In the Skin of a Lion students will understand, hopefully... I'll be taking this tour for sure. And is it just me, or have you developed a disturbingly chummy relationship with several inanamate objects on campus (sandstone walls...)?
Posted by: Asako | March 13, 2006 11:06 PM
Yes Asako, I am a weirdo. If ever you see me around campus talking to a tree or patting a fence please turn me around, tell me it's all going to be alright and gently push me in the direction of my next class.
Posted by: Tim | March 14, 2006 10:06 AM