Science Officer's Personal Log | Hilary Term, Week 2 (22/Jan-28/Jan, 2023)

 

My perfect writing spot. An individual desk, facing a window, with a heater and a nice little blanket. The only downside were some inconsiderate tourists who insisted on standing right next to my desk to chat about the building in hushed tones. Despite the interruptions however, I finished chapter 9, book-ending the Basque section. Success.

This week I spent a lot of time at the Oxford Union. It was my favourite study spot by far and on Saturday, I found the perfect desk for writing. There, I finished chapter 9 of my book. And on thursday, I got to give my first floor speech at the chamber.

The only reason I wanted to speak was to share a floor with Ken Follett, who happens to be one of my favourite writers. I hoped to meet him at the drinks reception that followed, but it was not meant to be. He left early! Still, speaking at the Union was an interesting experience, and it actually made me want to be more involved. I certainly hope this will not be the last time I have spoken at the chamber. 

The chamber, before the debate

On Wednesday I had a guest for Burns night's formal at Jesus, when a bagpipes player marched into the hall with her instrument, and afterwards read a special blessing and carved the haggis. I had never had haggis before - and when I saw how hard it was to carve I was not inspired - but it turned out to be a delicious dish (at least the way Jesus' chef prepares it). My friend and I had a nice evening, and I even tried the shot of whiskey they poured us at dinner. It was exceedingly strong!

Burns night formal

This week also saw my return to Jesus' boathouse, for an erg session (and I hope for some water sessions in the near future!) I had to be at the boathouse at 06:30, and the walk there was challenging - not because it was long or difficult, but because the only way is through Christ Church Meadow, and there are no lights. Fortunately a team form Oriel was heading to the boathouses and I tagged along with them. There is no way I was crossing that Meadow by myself in the dark. Once there, training was nice. It felt good to do something physical again, and I hope I get to repeat the dose soon. 

The River, after the training session

All in all, it was a pretty good week. I went to see my first David Cronenberg movie (Crimes of the Future) with the Horror Society at Keeble's theatre and on Thursday we started practicing the Ubi Caritas, a beautiful melody I expect we'll sing on Sunday of Week 4. Fingers crossed that next week will be even better...