EDITORIAL indigo@palatinate.org.uk
Feeling fresh: tips from a ‘pandemic finalist’ Indigo Editor Cerys Edwards looks ahead to the new (in person!) academic year
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he other day I came across a Twitter thread titled ‘Uni survival guide for all freshers’. Written by a ‘pandemic graduate’, the list proved an interesting read and featured advice of varying accuracy: you will gain weight (true), don’t bring heels (false), don’t sleep with your housemates (gospel). However, rather than the content, what struck me was the confidence with which the author was able to dispense such advice. I suppose I could be described as a ‘pandemic finalist’ and while I could offer my two pennies worth of Durham-related tips and tricks (crucially: pack layers, the north is cold), the truth is that I feel more akin to a ‘silly fresh’ than a finalist. I’m still overcome with a slight sense of dread when entering the Billy B and still haven’t mustered the courage to join Overheard, despite losing my campus card more times than is acceptable for a (generally) competent person. I’m sure many ‘pandemic finalists’ – and ‘pandemic second years’ for that matter – are the same in this regard. Put simply, we just haven’t had the university experience we were expecting. Having to navigate two rounds of security in the TLC is now as (if not more) familiar to us than being asked for ID at Jimmy’s. The inside of a testing centre is now more recognisable than that of our department building. Such descriptions would be incomprehensible to a 2019 graduate, but that doesn’t render our university experience any less valid; in fact, I would argue the opposite is true. With a bit of good fortune, the start of this new academic year will hopefully mark the end of these pandemic-isms. As I reluctantly enter my final year here, I’m reminded of my hockey friend Liv, who was a third year when I first joined the team. She claimed to have a ‘fresher outlook on life’ and was always the first to arrive and last to leave every social and training session. Where possible, I think we should all embrace a similar attitude this year. Spare us another Zoom social – let’s experience Durham’s eccentricity in all its in-person glory.
In this vein, this ‘freshers’ edition of Indigo is devoted to all things Durham and is designed not only for new students but also for returners looking to make the most of all that the university has to offer. And there’s a lot. On pages 8 and 9 we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best events scheduled for this term, chosen by our wonderful Indigo section editors. There are some real gems here, including the ‘Museum of the Moon’ exhibition at the cathedral, reviewed on page 16 by Visual Arts. Continuing with the ‘freshers’ theme, pages 3, 12 and 13 feature book and film recommendations based on student life, while Food and Drink offer some tried and tested freshers flu remedies on page 9. If you are interested in getting involved with Palatinate, turn to page 10 for an interview with the Editors-in-Chief and Indigo Editors. Also keep an eye out for our upcoming freshers social where you can chat to current members of the editorial board. We hope you enjoy the edition and that it proves useful in some respect. Perhaps, after reading, you’ll even be tempted to write your own Twitter thread.
Artwork of the week by Sophie Draper
CONTENT
TEAM
CONTACT
Books (page 3), Features (page 4), Stage (page 5), Style (page 6), Music (page 7), Listings (pages 8 and 9), Interview (page 10), Travel (page 11), Film and TV (pages 12 and 13), Food and Drink (page 14), Creative Writing (page 15) and Visual Arts (page 16).
Cerys Edwards, Honor Douglas, Adeline Zhao, Isobel Tighe, Miriam Mitchell, Imi Marchant, Samuel Lopez, Katya Davisson, Annabelle Bulag, Ben Smart, Jodie Sale, Charlotte Grimwade, Grace Marshall, Millie Stott, Ella Al-Khalil Coyle, Nicole Wu, Christian Bland, Gracie Linthwaite, Holly Downes, Grace Jessop, Anna Johns, Nia Kile, Josie Lockwood, Emerson Shams, Stephanie Ormond and Abigail Brierley
www.palatinate.org.uk
Indigo logo: Adeline Zhao Cover image: Anna Kuptsova
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Follow our socials Facebook: www.facebook.com/palindigo Twitter and Instagram: @indigodurham Have a question, comment or an article idea? Email us at indigo@palatinate.org.uk or any Indigo section email address
Image credits (from left): Adeline Zhao; Sophie Draper
BOOKS books@palatinate.org.uk
Beginnings and belongings Books Editor Samuel Lopes explores the value of the coming-of-age novel
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s a fresh cohort of students begin to explore Durham’s streets, it can be tempting to think of the start of the new academic year as the start of a corresponding ‘new chapter’ in life. And, for many, it seems that way. Released from parental constraints and thrust into new surroundings, it is easy to make a conscious decision that, from now on, this is the start of something different. The beginning of something new. Some even reach for their favourite works of fiction for inspiration and guidance. But does it matter in the long term what we consider a ‘beginning’ to the next stage in our lives?
As many have attested to, is important not to fall into a way of being that doesn’t reflect you
Editor’s Picks
In my view, this comes down to a search for identity – sometimes, surrounded by new and unfamiliar environments, it is difficult to determine where we truly fit in. By ‘re-inventing’ ourselves, we make life easier by re-establishing an often-elusive sense of belonging. We try to better relate to others around us, and often transform ourselves in the process. The coming-of-age novel, or bildungsroman, explicitly explores these transformative processes and may provide some clue as to how to better navigate them. One of the most influential writers of coming-of-age novels in recent years has been Neil Gaiman, with works such as The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Coraline. Both novels feature children attempting to navigate the adult world. Like another prolific modern author, Haruki Murakami, Gaiman uses elements of fantasy and magical realism to demonstrate different perspectives on the world, in order to better reify an individual’s transformation.
However, in many respects, Gaiman’s work is closer to an anti-coming-of-age novel. He emphasises that, in our efforts to grow up, we suffer from a kind of myopia – as he writes in Ocean, “Adults follow paths. Children explore.” Gaiman shows the consequences of this blindness by first introducing us to the adult, mature version of the unnamed protagonist in Ocean as living a banal, isolated, and apathetic life. But, when that same apathetic man encounters the magical in the form of the eponymous Ocean (viewed through adult eyes as little more than a pond), he is rejuvenated and announces, ‘Thank you… for saving my life.’ Rather than encouraging his characters to grow up, Gaiman emphasises the need for wonder – and tells us not to be afraid to embrace our more child-like side. Much like Gaiman draws upon the otherworldly and enchanting to find a sense of belonging, we as individuals may return to our favourite ‘comfort characters’ to supply that same feeling. Unsure of what our ‘authentic’ self is, we find respite in familiar characters whose fictional journeys match our idealised ones, creating a sense of belonging. One study found that “thinking about favoured … television programs buffers against drops in self-esteem and mood and against increases in feelings of rejection.” Returning to characters that we can relate to, in the absence of relating to people in our real life, can provide synthetic grounding to our fragile sense of self. It is particularly telling that literature of this kind has changed with the times, from
Lauren Groff - Matrix Hotly anticipated historical fiction from the author of Fates and Furies, following the life of lesser known medieval French poet Marie de France.
Robert Sheckley - Dimensions of Miracles A revolutionary work of sci-fi that inspired some of the 20th century’s most prolific writers
Alice Feeney - Rock, Paper, Scissors A fast-paced thriller with a soon-to-be-released accompanying Netflix series, sure to transfix you in cold evenings.
P.G. Wodehouse - The Mating Season The pinnacle work by the man behind possibly the most comforting reads known to man.
Billy Collins - The Trouble with Poetry Deeply comforting and often hilarious poetry. The perfect companion for a quiet moment.
Roman Mars and Kurt Kohlstedt - The 99% Invisible City A look at the hidden world of everyday design, from the same minds as the hit podcast 99% Invisible.
Images (from left): Caspar David Friedrich (Wikimedia); Gerry Morris (Flickr); Thomas Ford Memorial Library (Flickr)
the 17th century to the present day; it seems that a need to belong and relate to others is consistent across centuries of writing and social experiences. Other modern-day authors of coming-of-age novels, like the writer of The Fault in Our Stars John Green, also seek out ways to relate their experiences to others. The protagonist in Green’s work, Turtles All the Way Down, has severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In one interview, Green made public that he wrote about those specific experiences “because they mirror his own”. Authors like Gaiman and Murakami allow their character to escape to a magical hyperreality to allow their characters to introspect – we as readers also sink into the reality of coming-of-age novels to explore familiar problems in unfamiliar contexts. So, what does all this mean to the typical Durham student? Ultimately, whether you choose to consider university life as a ‘new beginning’ is up to you. However, as Gaiman and other coming-of-age writers have written and attested to, it is important not to fall into a way of being that doesn’t fully reflect who you are as a person. Coming-ofage novels can provide a space where different characters can resonate with you, provide you with new perspectives and explore who you are as an individual. And, hopefully, make this tumultuous time in life just a little bit easier.
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FEATURES features@palatinate.org.uk
A letter to my fresher self Sports Editor George Simms offers candid advice to his fresher self
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ear George,
I really wasn’t sure how to address this. ‘Hi mate’ sounds slightly like I’m trying to buy a club ticket off someone I once sat next to in a lecture. Let’s be honest, just ‘George’ is far more direct than either of us will ever be. ‘Hey’ is how you would’ve started, and I like to think my writing has moved past that. ‘Dear George’ seemed safe, it even suggests I quite like you, which is probably more than you could say for you right now. Now we’ve moved past that, let’s get started. It’s me. I’m you, but three years in the future. I suppose I’m here to try and give you some advice. All things considered, I’m probably the best person for the job. I know self-reflection has never really been our thing, but there’s no time like the present. You’ve just set off for Durham. In about six hours, you’ll be lingering in a hospital waiting room-cum-socialising space you’ll come to know as Hatfield Bar. You’ll see a group of guys hovering around a table, tentatively asking each other what A-Levels they took and where they come from. Go over to them. They’re equally as scared of this as you are. You don’t even really have to say anything, just laugh when it seems appropriate and try and ascertain everyone’s names before it becomes too late to ask. Remember that one, it’ll save you a lot of time and inner turmoil.
Stop trying to live up to an idea of a ‘future you’ in your head You’re going to change in ways you can’t even begin to comprehend. It’ll happen so quickly you won’t be able to keep up. Some days you’ll look in the mirror and like the new you and some days you won’t. Trial and error have got us this far and I still don’t have any better ide4
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as. I’m not convinced anyone else does either. Take every opportunity you can. Take risks. Make mistakes. Let yourself be an idiot. It’s not something you’ve ever been very good at, and wow, you’re about to over-compensate. But that’s ok. It might be the oldest cliché in the fresher phrasebook, but first year really doesn’t matter. Spend your first year exploring - discover what you enjoy and then do lots of it. Write as much as you can, play football, get your mates to go to the pub at lunchtime and don’t leave until kicking-out time. If someone invites you to do something in first term, just do it. The friends you’ve already made won’t forget about you if you go to another college for a night out, and if they do then it’s a fair sign that they weren’t destined to be in your life long-term.
First year really dosen’t matter. Spend it exploring I’ve left the most important piece of advice until the end. Stop trying to live up to an idea of ‘future you’ that’s in your head. You’ll miss who you really are trying to become, someone you’re not. I’m nothing like you think I’ll be and, trust me, that’s a good thing.
You’ll never learn to drink beer. It’s still cocktails and fruity ciders for you and no one could care less. You won’t spend your time curled up in bed reading the classics, because one day, you’ll peruse your shelf full of books you’ve read 100 pages of and never opened again and realise that, as much as you might want to be a turtleneck wearing literary aficionado, you get bored too easily to read books with 1,000 pages. You’ll never be on University Challenge because your trivia is far more The Chase. You won’t learn to love cricket, or really ‘get’ art, or work in the City. All of that’s ok because that’s who you are. Stop trying to fight it. Just be yourself, people will love you for it. If you pretend to be someone you’re not, sooner or later people will find out. Spend your time becoming yourself rather than being what you think people want you to be. All they want is for you to be you. Even when life seems like it won’t, it’ll be ok. I promise. I love you, and you will too. George, September 2021 Image credit: Mark Norton
STAGE stage@palatinate.org.uk
‘Times are a-changing’: post-pandemic theatre Daisy Hargreaves reassures us that, despite its new look, theatre is here to stay
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uch like you, dear reader, I am unfortunate enough to have an interest in the arts. The past 18 months have damned the supposedly ‘expendable’ creative industry with as much devastating force as when that guy on Come Dine With Me exposed Jane’s sad little life. However, now the arts are slowly returning, there is an interesting question to ponder as the house lights go down and you carefully balance your plastic pint glass of overpriced cider and sharebag of Malteasers — that you certainly do not plan on sharing — on your lap: What has changed?
Are people more excited for the theatre? Certainly! Walking back into the theatre after so long is like going to brunch with an old school friend. You dress up, showing you’ve changed, matured. It starts off a little awkward. You want them to know how well you’re doing and then you hear how they’ve been travelling and have a new partner. You get a little jealous, but it all melts away into genuine excitement. You love them, they love you. You reminisce about old times and promise to not leave it this long until you meet up again and you genuinely mean it, you are left with a warm glowing smile on the tube on your way home. Its not like we haven’t heard from our old school friend recently, we’ve just been viewing their life updates through their Instagram stories and stalking them on SnapMaps (the old friend is a metaphor for theatre, get it? Okay, let’s move on). Despite the Tory campaign that told creatives to all retrain in ‘cyber’ being horrid and nasty, the irony is that we actually did have to learn some ‘cyber’ (still don’t really know what that means). I was a part of Durham’s first filmed theatrical production, Blackbird, with Suffragette Theatre Company. It was a terrifying
and stressful process, figuring out how to film and also perform an ‘intimate’ scene in keeping with social distancing rules. But we did it, it worked, and at least a handful of people actually watched it. It was the same when it came to producing content for the Durham Revue. We realised that we couldn’t record a show in an empty theatre without laughs — it would have sent us all into an even deeper self-hate spiral. Online sketches were the way forward, but you quickly realise that online content is a whole other ball-game. A rather lonely, technically challenging ball-game. It is also key to point out that filming theatre is not a new idea. NT Live has been beaming past productions onto the silver screen for years, starting way back in 2009 with Helen Mirren in Phedre, which amassed an audience of approximately 50,000 for one performance. One of the best productions I have ever seen was an NT Live streaming of Ivan van Hove’s A View from the Bridge. The medium did not lessen the impact of the performance (although I kind of wish I’d seen it live if only to be splashed with fake blood by Mark Strong — swoon).
liar privilege of performing on the Lyttleton stage when the rest of the building remained silent. Despite the lack of audience, the film still captures the essence of theatre — its biggest success, in my opinion. The star-studded cast are seen in rehearsal gear, tracksuit bottoms and trainers, warming up, scripts in hand. You could practically sense the meal deals in the corner and sniff that specific dusty smell of the wings through the screen. The end-product was a film that encapsulated the experience of both mediums, reaping the benefits of both with masterful skill.
You quickly realise online content is a whole other ball-game This blended approach has been explored before. Katie Mitchell utilises the projection of images and videos in her award-winning productions, using fragmentation to add a filmic
A wonderful hybrid of the two mediums Of course we have also seen a wonderful hybrid of the two mediums in the recent National Theatre film of Romeo & Juliet. Filmed at the height of lockdown, the film plays tribute to the haunted theatres that lay empty and dark up and down the country. The featurettes on the production (available on YouTube — great procrastination content) all discuss the pecu-
dimension to her conception of theatre. In a similar way, Joe Wright’s 2012 film of Anna Karenina, starring Keira Knightley, is set within a theatre, exploiting the architecture and physical structure of the space to amplify the themes of the famous narrative. What I’m trying to say is: don’t be sceptical about this blend of film and theatre (the ultimate creative smoothie). We’ve seen it before, whether you realised it or not. It is what we could manage during lockdown, it won’t be going anywhere soon, and I don’t think theatre will die because of it; people still crave real people in real places and telling other people to ‘shh’. So, text that old friend. I’m sure they’d love to meet up. Just don’t be shocked if they look a little different because deep down they’re still the same.
Image credits (from left): Kushagra Kevat (Unsplash); Suffragette Theatre Company; Wesley Pribadi (Unsplash)
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STYLE style@palatinate.org.uk
Met Gala 2021: first Monday in September? Mary Atkinson reflects on her favourite looks from this year’s Met Gala
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n 13th September fashion’s biggest event, The Met Gala, finally made its long-awaited return following cancellation in 2020 and postponement in 2021. The Met Gala is famously known for falling upon the first Monday in May but, instead, in this disrupted timeline, it fell in September. This year’s Gala was a much smaller, intimate affair, the guest list a third of its usual size.
The Gala is one of the most exclusive events in the world The annual gala is held to raise money for New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. Tickets are rumoured to be around $30,000 apiece, with a table costing around $270,000. A large markup from the $1,000 per ticket price tag from the mid1990s, when Vogue’s formidable Editorin-Chief Anna Wintour took over the event as chairman. The Gala is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive events in the world, with Wintour approving each guest. The 2021 theme was “In America: A Lexicon of
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Fashion” with Wintour, Timothee Chalamet, Billie Eilish, Amanda Gorman and Naomi Osaka acting as this year’s hosts. However, despite the open-ended theme, it was one many guests didn’t conform to, perhaps the most American act possible. Despite this, there were still many looks which impressed alongside important acts and statements, all made through the mode of fashion. Here are a few of my favourite moments from fashion’s biggest event of the year.
Nikkie Tutorials pays tribute to Marsha P Johnson
In perhaps one of the most underrated looks of the night , makeup artist and influencer NikkieTutorials, also known as Nikkie de Jager, paid a beautiful tribute to trans activist Marsha P. Johnson, a prominent figure from Stonewall in 1969. De Jager paid homage to Johnson on her Met debut through a beautiful ocean green tulle mer-
maid gown. She referenced an image of Johnson herself by accessorising with a floral headpiece. At the bottom of de Jager’s stunning gown, a sash was attached reading the words “pay it no mind”, said to be Johnson’s response to those against the LGBTQ+ liberation movement. Her look fit the American theme perfectly, paying tribute to a trans-American icon, prominent not only to de Jager herself who came out as transgender in January 2020 but to American and LGBTQ+ history as a whole. De Jager’s look was a fitting example of impactful high fashion couture, designed by Amsterdam based designer Edwin Ooudshoorn.
Lewis Hamilton platforms young, black designers
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton and Met Gala regular brought more than just looks to this year’s event. The seven-time world champion buying a table to showcase and support young and emerging black designers, demonstrating his commitment to diversity and inclusivity in all areas of his life, just months after
founding The Hamilton Commission and Mission 44 in F1. Hamilton brought along designers Kenneth Nicholson (whom he was dressed by), Edvin Thompson and Jason Rembert; as well as his stylist Law Roach, (an icon within the industry, most famously known for styling Zendaya), Kehlani, Miles Chamley-Watson and Sha’Carri Richardson. Hamilton told Vogue, “for this theme I wanted to create something that was meaningful and would spark a conversation”.
A perfect ode to American fashion CL and Blackpink’s Rose become the first K-Pop stars to attend the Met Gala
With the rise of K-Pop globally, it was perhaps surprising that 2021 was the first Met Gala to host a K-Pop artist. The former leader of 2NE1 and fashion darling CL attended dressed in Moschino and Alexander Wang; while Rose, a YSL ambassador, attended as the guest of their image director Anthony Vaccarello. CL’s look commanded particular attention online, becoming the 5th most tweeted about all night. The star was dressed in a Moschino denim cape, a typically American textile. The piece drew comparisons to the traditional Korean Hanbok, especially in the knot, paired with a pair of Alexander Wang ‘tighty whities’ underneath. A perfect ode to American fashion, which reminded many of 90s Calvin Klein adverts. CL’s look, however, had further intricacies, as seen in her sculptural hair, inspired by a headpiece worn traditionally by Queens such as Empress Myeongseong. The K-Pop icon’s look perfectly encapsulated the American theme while showcasing her own culture. Illustration: Victoria Cheng
MUSIC music@palatinate.org.uk
Face the music: a guide to Music Durham Music Editors Katya Davisson and Annabelle Bulag introduce Durham’s ensembles
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s the largest student society in the University, Music Durham drives student music across the whole of Durham. It encompasses an impressive variety of ensembles playing a huge range of music. From baroque to pop, opera to a cappella, open mic nights to evening concerts in the cathedral, you’ll be sure to find something you enjoy, no matter your ability. We have compiled an introduction to just five of the many societies on offer, but keep your eyes peeled for more ensemble exposés on the Palatinate website throughout the term! You’ll find the following societies and many more at the Music Durham Freshers’ Fair on Wednesday 29th September at Maiden Castle. Also have a look at the Music Durham website (avaliable at: www.musicdurham.org) to find a full list of musical opportunities and events in Durham! We look forward to meeting you all!
DUOS
Durham University Orchestral Society is the largest and most established of the orchestras at Durham, consisting of a full-size symphony orchestra and an elite chamber orchestra. We pride ourselves on the high quality of our music-making and the incredible performance opportunities we offer our members. DUOS aims to perform at least one concert per term, and recent highlights include Stravinsky’s ‘Firebird’ and Rachmaninoff’s ‘Symphony No.2’. DUOS is unique amongst the orchestras in Durham in our provision of numerous masterclasses with eminent professional musicians such as Peter Stark, Jac van Steen, and the Frankland Quartet. The impressive venues we perform in include Durham Cathedral and most recently The Sage Gateshead. Any keen and talented instrumentalist with a passion for
great orchestral music should definitely audition for DUOS! Find us at the Freshers’ Fair to sign up for an audition, and follow our socials to stay up to date @duorchestral.society!
JazzSoc
The Durham Jazz Society is one of the biggest and busiest studentled jazz societies in the UK. We organise a range of jazzy events from gigs and masterclasses to jams and socials. On Sunday nights, we welcome everyone down to Fabio’s bar for the JazzSoc weekly jam. Freshers are particularly welcome to come and play and everyone can get to know each other at some of our JazzSoc freshers socials! We also highly recommend the JazzSoc big band which runs weekly rehearsals in preparation for a variety of gigs throughout the term. In second term, we’re very excited to welcome the wonderful Gareth Lockrane who will be holding a big band masterclass as well as Tom Ollendorff who will be stopping by with his trio to play in Durham in December. Follow our Instagram @durhamjazzsoc and meet the ever-growing Durham jazz community!
An impressive variety of ensembles; there’s something for all DUCS
Durham University Choral Society (affectionately, DUCS) is Durham’s largest and oldest choir. We are also the only professionally-conducted Music Durham ensemble and have recently appointed John Forsyth MBE to direct us, which the exec are extremely excited about. We sing a huge variety of repertoire (look at our socials for previous concert posters), and our recent performance of Mendelssohn’s ‘Eli-
jah’ in the Cathedral won a Full Palatinate award! Another huge highlight in the DUCS calendar is the carol service. Singing banging descants in Durham Cathedral is not an opportunity you want to miss out on - trust me. DUCS is a fantastic way to meet new people from different colleges and courses, and our weekly post-rehearsal pub trips are not to be missed! Follow our socials @durhamunichoralsoc to find out more - we can’t wait to get to know you!
Northern Lights
Northern Lights is Durham University’s top a cappella group. We are a bunch of creative individuals who perform at balls, external gigs and Durham events. Everything we perform is arranged by someone in the ensemble, and this year, we hope to record another album and release more music videos! Our own show at the Gala Theatre is a highly anticipated performance alongside our annual trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which was sold-out this year. Northern Lights also enters the International Championship of Collegiate a cappella every year
and is regarded as a highly rated competitive group. Our audition process is fun, friendly and we are so excited to welcome our new members this year with a classic Northern Lights Social. Follow us @nlacappella to find out more!
DOMAN
The Durham Original Music & Associates Network (DOMAN) is the only society in Durham dedicated to composition! We host networking & jam sessions, create a podcast and run song-writing competitions, with the aim of pushing new student music to the forefront of Durham’s music scene. From releasing an album full of student artists’ work to hosting workshops dedicated to Women In Music, DOMAN has continually provided students with a creative outlet. Our LinkUp Scheme also allows students to have a second opinion on their work, making better musicians out of both our members and our alumni.
Find us on Facebook or Instagram @doman_social and send us a message to find out more!
Image credit: Samuel Kirkman Tuesday, 28 September 2021
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LISTINGS indigo@palatinate.org.uk
Purple diary: the best events on this term Indigo presents a definitive guide to Durham’s cultural calendar HIGHLIGHTS
FILM
FOOD
ART
Thurs. 18 – Sun. 21 November Lumiere Every other year, the city of Durham is illuminated by this beautiful open-air art festival. Artists use prominent local structures as their canvases, decorating them with highly visual light-up installations to create a unique and captivating spectacle. One of the essential events in Durham’s cultural calendar. Online. Tickets free.
Tues. 28 September Romeo & Juliet Gala Cinema is showing the National Theatre adaptation of the classic play, starring Josh O’Connor and Jessie Buckley. Tickets are more expensive than usual for this oneoff screening (Gala tickets usually £5). £15 at full price and £10 for Gala members. 7:00 PM.
Sat. 2 October Oktoberfest in Newcastle Fancy getting your lederhosen on? Get the train to Newcastle, and in just 14 miles you’ll be transported all the way to Germany for an authentic Oktoberfest experience. If you fancy a day of Bavarian festivities, this is for you! Tyne Bank Brewery & Tap Room, Newcastle @tynebankbrewery
Ends Thurs. 11 November Museum of the Moon at Durham Cathedral Luke Jerram’s itinerant replica of the moon will light up the nave of Durham Cathedral until 11th November. It’s completely open to the public during the day and can be experienced at night by booking online. See page 16 for more details.
Mon. 11 October Counter Culture As part of Durham Book Festival there will be a free screening of Louise Powell’s unique film. Inspired by the writings of eight working-class authors, the film promises to capture authentic communities and voices. Online, no booking required. 5:30 PM-6 PM.
Sat. 2 – Sun. 3 October Bishop Auckland Food Festival With celebrity guests, including Masterchef’s John Torode, Bishop Auckland will be host to artisan food stalls, street food and a free cookery theatre. Market Place, Bishop Auckland @bishfoodfest
Student Art Prize Founded in 2019, this annual competition is already generating plenty of buzz. Designed to give budding artists at the University an opportunity to contribute to the Durham art scene, the standard of past entries has been simply sensational. Expect an announcement in November!
Sat. 9 – Sun. 17 October Durham Book Festival Durham Book Festival is back and better than ever. A range of in-person and online events offers unprecedented opportunities to get to know authors, as well as the announcement of the Gordon Burns Prize. Programme includes Pat Barker, Ed Balls and Amika George. In person (Gala Theatre) and online. Some events free, others ticketed £5-15.
Sun. 10 October Durham Revue presents Unfinished Business Durham University’s premier sketch comedy troupe perform their show Unfinished Business, having already received hit reviews from their London run. Assembly Rooms Coming October 2021 (Date TBC) Turtle Bay Opening Next to the Odeon will be Durham’s newest Bar and Restaurant. For those who love the Caribbean, Turtle Bay boasts a wide range of West Indian, Jerk and Soul food from the region. Additionally, they are currently looking for staff, so if you’re interested, check it out. Riverwalk, Durham @turtlebayuk
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Sat. 30 October Tyneside Cinema In the lead up to spooky season, Tyneside Cinema is hosting screenings of several cult classics, including An American Werewolf in London, Psycho and Saint Maud. Times vary but most are around 22:00 PM. Tickets £6.66 each… Thurs. 14 October The Star And Shadow Cinema, Newcastle This volunteer-run community cinema is hosting a screening of the 1958 French crime drama A Lift to the Scaffold, a classic example of French new wave cinema. Tickets between £5 and £7.
Sat. 9 October Newcastle Vegan Market If you’ve already explored Durham’s vegan scene, spend the day at Newcastle’s Vegan Market, which promises vegan street food, baked goods and local artisanal products. Grainger Street, Newcastle. Open 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM. @newcastle.veganmarket
Museum of Archaeology This museum’s latest exhibition is all about Durham’s earliest visual traditions. Easily accessible on Palace Green, it will display some stunning artefacts spanning 250,000 years of history for the whole of first term. Tickets can be pre-booked for free.
Barrio Comida Looking for authentic Mexican food? Happy Hour is Wed. to Fri. 3-6 P M with great deals.
Image credit (from left): Qing Cong; ‘The Durham Revue’ via Ben Lycett.
LISTINGS indigo@palatinate.org.uk
BOOKS
STAGE
NIGHTLIFE
MUSIC
TALKS
Thurs. 30 September Bringing Shakespeare’s First Folio to Life with Alice Byrne Performance workshop aiming to introduce participants to some of Shakespeare’s most famous works, led by Alice Byrne. Organised by Cosin’s library. Online.
Sat. 9 October Giselle Ballet Cymru’s present Giselle—their new production that transforms an enduring story with a contemporary touch. Don’t miss out on your chance to catch this touring company offering some of the best dance in Wales. The Gala Theatre
Wed. 29 September Residents Opening Party With sets from this year’s Resident DJs, Will Young, Ludo Goldsmith, and Patrick Kelly, this is the perfect night for lovers of Disco, House, UK Garage, Drum and Bass and more. Fabio’s Bar, Durham, 10:00 PM-02:00 AM. Tickets £4 available on FIXR.
Wed. 29 September The Literatures of New York Paul Cockburn examines the escaped tiger of Johnathan Lethem’s 2009 novel Chronic City as part of the Late Summer Lecture Series 2021. Online (Zoom). 5:30 PM7:30 PM. Free.
Sat. 16 – Sun. 17 October A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams Blizzard Theatre Company bring you a timeless classic reimagined this October. When Blanche leaves pastoral Mississippi to move in with her sister Stella, she finds herself confined to merciless New Orleans and exposed to the unforgiving Stanley Kowalski. Mount Oswald, The Hub
Thurs. 30 September Durfresh – UV Traffic Lights Party UNDI Events and Durfess collaborate for Durham’s biggest traffic lights party! Single? Pop on your green paint. Taken? Get out the red. It’s complicated…? Come in orange! A university right of passage. Lloyds No 1 Bar, Durham, 10:00 PM-02:00 AM. Tickets £3-£5 available on FIXR.
Fri. 1 October Royal Northern Sinfonia: Dance! Join the RNS for a diverse programme themed around dance and movement, featuring Shaker Loops by Adams, Piazzolla’s Tango-inspired concerto for bandoneon titled Aconcagua, and Beethoven’s Symphony No.7, described by Wagner as the “apotheosis of the dance”. Sage Gateshead, 7:30 PM. Tickets £5-£39.50.
Wed. 29 September The Literatures of New York with Paul Cockburn Lecture tracking the escaped tiger of Jonathan Lethem’s Chronic City and the risk of politically produced conditions. Online. Sat. 25 September An Audience with Ann Cleeves Award winning crime writer Ann Cleeves discusses The Heron’s Cry, the second in her Two Rivers series, published this year. The National Centre for the Written Word, South Shields. 6:00 PM-7:00 PM. £5 per person. Thurs. 14 – Sun. 17 October Berwick Literary Festival Literary festival in Berwick upon Tweed. Range of in person and online ticketed events, including poetry and writing workshops. Wed. 6 October The Poetics of Breath(lessness) Dr. Imola Nagy-Seres discusses the modernist poetics of breathlessness, focussing on Katherine Mansfield’s experience with tuberculosis and its influence on her writing. Online, free.
Thurs. 21 – Sat. 23 October Medea by Euripides, translated by Robin Robertson Phoenix Theatre Company present Medea; a Greek Tragedy that glories in revenge, betrayal and power. Rooted in a contemporary setting, the production dissects gender, sexuality and otherness in a 21st century context. Assembly Rooms
Tues. 5 – Wed. 6 Oct Freshers ABBA Experience Calling all Super Troupers and Dancing Queens for a night of non stop ABBA including disco and singalong classics. Players Bar, Durham, 10:00 PM-3:00 AM. Tickets £3-£9. Fri. 8 October Pirate Radio ‘Disco Dancing’ Head up to the newly refurbished Loft for the very best of Swing, Disco, Motown, Classics and Chart! A night full of legendary music and drink deals not to be missed. Good vibes only! Loft Durham, 10:00 PM02:30 AM. Tickets £6 available on FIXR.
Thurs. 7 October Cloudbursting: The Music of Kate Bush Named by BBC One as one of the most authentic tributes in the world, Cloudbursting are the next best thing to seeing the real Kate Bush! Accompanied by exciting visuals, this is concert is not to be missed. Gala Theatre, 7:30 PM. Tickets £22. Fri. 15 October The Sixteen - The Choral Pilgrimage 2021: The Call of Rome To celebrate 20 years of The Choral Pilgrimage, The Sixteen’s 2021 tour is inspired by Rome. The programme, performed under Jerram’s Museum of the Moon art installation, features much-loved composers such as Victoria, Josquin and Allegri. Durham Cathedral, 7:30 PM. Tickets £15-27. Sun. 17 October Leonskaja Plays Schubert Join legendary pianist Elisabeth Leonskaja for a programme featuring Schubert’s final three piano sonatas. Unmissable for any aspiring pianist or fan of Schubert’s. Sage Gateshead, 3:00 PM. Tickets £5-£23.
Mon. 11 October Ruth First Day Gavin Williams and others celebrate the work and life of anti-apartheid campaigner Ruth First and discuss the issues faced by activist researchers. Penthouse Suite, Collingwood College, 10:00 AM4:00 PM. Free. Email admin.chess@durham.ac.uk. Tues. 19 October Caroline Criado-Perez in Conversation Feminist campaigner and writer Caroline CriadoPerez explores the gender biases that impact our daily lives in her 2019 book Invisible Women. Gala Theatre, 7:30 PM. Tickets £10 or £17 with a copy of Invisible Women. Student ID for discount. Sun. 24 October Tim Peake: My Journey to Space European Space Agency astronaut Tim Peake talks about his career so far as part of his first UK tour. O2 City Hall Newcastle. 7:00 PM. Tickets £29.50-£41. Sat. 6 November Blackfriars Lecture: Fantastic Feasts Dr Michael Huxtable and colleagues explore medieval literature and more, with a themed lunch. Blackfriars Banquet Hall Newcastle. 11:00 AM3:00PM. Tickets £25.
Image credit: Blizzard Theatre Company. Tuesday, 28 September 2021
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INTERVIEW interview@palatinate.org.uk
Q&A: meet the people behind Palatinate Interview Editor Abigail Brierley speaks to the Palatinate and Indigo Editors
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irst up, meet Palatinate (Pal) Editor-in-Chief, Max Kendix. He’s a third year Castle student studying PPE. Q. How and when did you get involved with Palatinate/Indigo? A. I picked up my first print edition in freshers’ week, but had a pretty bumpy sign-up journey… First, I turned up to the welcome drinks at the Library bar on the wrong day and accidentally walked into the Anime Society social. Then I applied for a few positions and didn’t get an interview, and just before lockdown struck, I became Profile Editor. From that I moved to News, then Deputy, now Editor. It’s been fantastic. Q. What is your favourite thing that you’ve written about? A. When we first launched the Satire section, I had a lot of fun writing the first few articles. Second to that is maybe being able to include “crocodile porn” in a headline about a disrupted JCR meeting. Durham’s a funny place. Q. Why should freshers get involved with Palatinate/Indigo? A. It’s so much fun. I’m biased but it’s the best thing you can do at Durham. It brilliantly combines finding friends in a group, learn-
ence to get involved. Lots of people think that Palatinate is some mysterious organisation run by a small selection of students who all already know each other. Not true! It is so easy to get involved with the paper - no journalistic experience is necessary and all the first round applications are completely anonymised.
tions Editor at the beginning of my second year. I was completely out of my depth and had no experience to speak of, but was lucky to have editors managing me who were immensely patient. I was soon being interviewed for a role in News by the then Editor, Tom and virtually bit his hand off when he offered me the position. Q. What is your favourite thing that you’ve written about? A. Some students and staff put a huge three metre (!) golden penis statue up in Castle great hall. Naturally it caused heat and vi-
I’m biased but it’s the best thing you can do at Durham; you’ll love it ing new skills, expressing yourself, the ability to launch a career in journalism, and entertaining or informing thousands of students. Join in, you’ll love it. The other Editor-in-Chief is Toby Donegan-Cross. He’s a fourthyear history student in St. Aidan’s who has just returned from a year abroad in France. Q. How and when did you get involved with Palatinate/Indigo? A. Through a bizzare twist of fate, I was appointed Investiga10
Tuesday, 28 September 2021
cious debate about artistic standards with a lengthy conflict in Castle MCR. We had terrific fun thinking of headline, landing on “Golden cock-up at Castle College”. Levity goes a long way in a news section. Q. What is Palatinate/Indigo’s biggest myth? A. Less a myth and more a peeve, and that is that the paper is called ‘the Palatinate’. ‘Palatinate’ (no ‘the’) is the name. Cerys Edwards is one of the two
Indigo Editors. She studies Geography (BSc) and is also a third year Castle student. Q. How and when did you get involved with Palatinate/Indigo? A. My first involvement with the paper was during the freshers social just after Christmas in my first year. I’d seen the event advertised on Facebook and while I was initially reluctant to go, everyone there was so welcoming and I got to speak to several members of the editorial board. After that, I started contributing articles to various sections and then applied for an editorial position a couple of months later. Aside from writing for the paper, I had no journalistic experience at all - just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn on the job. Q. What is your favourite thing that you’ve written about? A. Last summer I wrote a rather niche piece about the lack of conventional punctuation incommercially popular contemporary novels such as those by Sally Rooney and Bernardine Evaristo. That’s what is so great about Palatinate: any current student can write and read about a huge variety of interesting topics. Q. What is Palatinate/Indigo’s biggest myth? A. That we require prior experi-
Honor Douglas is the other half of the Indigo Editor duo. She is a Liberal Arts student at St. Marys. Q. How and when did you get involved with Palatinate/Indigo? A. I first wrote an article in Term one for Stage but used the third lockdown in Term two to write approximately twenty articles for a wide range of sections. This intense writing spree then led me to apply to be Deputy Comment Editor, my first editorial position in Palatinate. Q. What is your favourite section of Palatinate/Indigo? A. I think that Creative Writing is a really strong section. Their constant encouragement of contributors, introducing ideas such as a Whatsapp group when contributors experience writers block! Q. What is Palatinate/Indigo’s biggest myth? A. That it’s difficult to get involved. It is as easy as joining some contributor groups and offering to write articles that they suggest, or emailing a section with one of your ideas for an article. Q. Why should freshers get involved with Palatinate/Indigo? A. Writing for Palatinate is one of the best ways to get journalistic experience during your time at Durham, and to get feedback on your writing from the editors in order to improve. Getting involved as an editor teaches you how to deal with people and issues as they arise, and and also brings you further into a brilliant and accepting community. Image credit: Anna Kuptsova
TRAVEL travel@palatinate.org.uk
The amber zone: travelling abroad during the pandemic Travel Editor Holly Downes explores whether pandemic travel is worth the hassle
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aking up in the ungodly hours of the morning, rather than childish excitement bubbling within me, I was confronted with immense anxiety. Seeping into every inch of my body, my thoughts were not occupied by the Aperol Spritz I would be sipping on later in the day, but the stressful expedition through the not so idyllic Luton Airport. No longer can we board a plane without sticking a swab down our throats, breathe without a mask and glide through airports without a care in the world. With the government’s traffic light system outlining the rules when leaving and entering the UK, all of which can change hours before take-off, going on holiday has turned into a lottery game. However, this lottery game is not a cheap one, but one that involves sacrificing a large sum of hard-earned money.
Going on holiday has turned into a lottery game Regardless, my friends and I were willing to play this dangerous game of lottery to escape to the party paradise that is Mykonos. Booking this trip back in February, the depressing winter month of soaring coronavirus cases and deaths, we were taking a huge risk. Yet fast for-
Image credits: Holly Downes
ward to July, the famous month when all restrictions were relaxed and we could resume back to our pre-pandemic lives, the prospect of fulfilling our lockdown dreams came ever closer.
Yes, we could have waited another year, but the world cannot stop for any longer With Greece comfortably remaining on the amber list, tourists flooded their Instagram stories with idyllic boat trips, Greek salads, and videos partying at renowned beach clubs under two strict conditions; double-vaccination or a negative coronavirus result forty-eight hours before take-off and a completion of the Passenger Locator Form before arriving to Greece. Sounds rather straightforward. But when the Greek Passport Control is examining and scrutinising every inch of your form and the legitimacy of your coronavirus test, this simplicity soon vanishes. If there is one quality travellers this past summer should have, it is organisational skills. As the saying goes, ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’. Taking your rapid-antigen test too early or simply misspelling a street name on your Passenger Locator Form will take away any chance of swimming in the crystal-clear ocean you dreamt of during lockdown. The week before departure will not be spent buying hundreds of new bikinis, but religiously refreshing the government website for new travelling updates. Your thoughts will become busier than ever, all fearing the one piece of news no traveller wants – a positive coronavirus result. Sacrificing your sanity for a few days is now the norm. Yet, sitting over Mykonos harbour admiring the sunset with my best friends, I realised that this sacrifice was worth it. The hours spent scouring the internet for trusted testing providers and filling out endless documents was worth every moment. Every night spent dancing and singing our hearts out until sunrise. Every stroll to get our morning coffee down the colour-coordinated streets of Mykonos. Every boat trip to Greece’s private beaches and ruined islands. These memories are the ones I will be reminiscing upon in ten years’ time, not the extra effort and money required to prepare for the
trip. And many travellers seemed to have this same mindset. Every night Mykonos was heaving with tourists from all over the world as Australian, American, and Irish accents echoed down every street. These countries gave their citizens the opportunity to take the plunge and travel, and many took that risk. With proof of double vaccination being mandatory to enter indoor buildings, the reduced possibility of coronavirus infection meant our days were not spent panicking about catching coronavirus but appreciating every second of our well-deserved holiday.
Sacrificing your sanity for a few days is now the norm Yes, we could have waited another year to avoid this added inconvenience, but the world cannot stop for any longer. The virus will not be eradicated any time soon, and as it stands, travelling will never be entirely free - we must learn to accept this rather than expect a prepandemic travelling experience. It is no longer a waiting game but an acceptance of reality.
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FILM AND TV
film@palatinate.org.uk
Settling in: freshers’ film recommendations Some of Film and TV’s contributors suggest films that helped them feel more at home in college during freshers’ week
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reshers’ week is a chaotic time for everyone. You’re moving into college, making new friends and living in a completely different city. Films can be a great way to bond over common interests and the recommendations below are a testament to that. Whether you’re craving the comfort of a Richard Curtis classic, a movie that reminds you of home, or a bloodcurdling horror to unite your new group of friends, there’s something for everyone!
About Time
By Olivia Begley It’s easy to imagine university life as a whirlwind of pre-drinks, clubbing, 9am lectures, repeat – and while this might be the case for some people, it really is worth taking some time to relax and get to know your new flatmates during freshers’ week. What better way is there to do so than with a bowl of popcorn and a good film?
Editors’ Picks
A romantic and familial love story
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My top ‘settling in’ film recommendation is the 2013 romcom, About Time, starring Domhnall Gleeson, Bill Nighy and Rachel McAdams. This film tells the story of unlucky in love, Tim, who learns that the men in his family can travel back in time to replay the past and change their own actions, and swiftly realises that this might be his chance to do the unthinkable…get a girlfriend. About Time is whimsical without being unrealistic, funny without being slapstick and tells both a romantic and familial love story – watching the easy dynamic of the Lake family as they set about their routine of table tennis, skimming rocks and drinking tea on the Cornish beach every evening is the perfect antidote to any freshers’ week homesickness that might be creeping in.
I can’t think of a better film to settle down to with your new flatmates on a chilly Durham evening Written and directed by Richard Curtis (the creator of films such as Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill, and Love Actually), About
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World Filled with dramatic fight scenes, hilarious one-liners and a quirky plot, the 2010 romcom Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a great film to watch either with new friends or if you’re feeling a bit homesick. The movie follows Scott Pilgrim (played by Michael Cera), an unsuccessful musician who simultaneously tries to win a major record deal as well as the approval of his girlfriend, Ramona Flowers (played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead). However, things get more complicated when Scott also has to battle Ramona’s seven evil exes, surreally combining indie music and martial arts in engaging fight scenes. Directed by Edgar Wright, the film makes for a light-hearted watch that can easily dissipate any Freshers’ Week nerves. Scott’s general sense of confusion and bafflement might at least be relatable during the chaos of Freshers’ Week! By Charlotte Grimwade
Tuesday, 28 September 2021
Image credit (from left): Samantha Fulton, Verity Laycock, L J via Flickr
FILM AND TV film@palatinate.org.uk
Time really hits the feel-good-film spot – I can’t think of a better film to settle down to with your new flatmates on a chilly Durham evening. Towards the end of the film, Tim worries that the ability to travel back and relive each day might stop him from enjoying the beauty of everyday life and actively chooses to try and live every day as if he will only get one chance to do so. I think this is a pretty good way to look at your time as Durham students, it won’t be long before the real world comes calling, so make the most of each day here!
Internal Affairs By Fan Wang
When asked for settling in film recommendations, I will always suggest at least one Hong Kong film not only because the language and the setting remind me of my hometown, but also because most Hong Kong films deserve wider recognition for their production quality, sequences, and plots. The first pick that came to mind is Internal Affairs, a crime action-thriller that stars two legendary Hong Kong actors, Andy Lau and Tony Leung. It is also one of the great classics within the Hong Kong movie canon. This film is followed by two sequels simply called Internal Affairs II and Internal Affairs III, but I personally enjoyed the first film in the series for its originality and compelling plot.
Hong Kong films deserve wider recognition
Editors’ Picks
Internal Affairs focuses on the story of two protagonists, a police officer who enters a triad and a member from the same triad who infiltrates the Hong Kong Police Force. Both of their separate organisations attempt to gain advantages in intelligence over the other with their mole. What makes the plot so interesting to watch unfold is the tension between the characters and the dramatic sequences present throughout the film. All of these factors make the film truly entertaining to watch with friends during freshers’ week.
The Woman in Black By George Simms
I don’t like horror movies. That isn’t to say they’re not well-made, I just don’t like being scared. It’s the same reason I don’t like roller coasters, skydiving, or the sound of someone knocking on my window at 4am when I live on the fifth floor. However, ten days into my Durham experience, against my better nature, I was one of eight freshers crammed into a dark and very definitely single room, with James Watkins’ The Woman in Black playing on a laptop on the floor. It’s not a psychological secret that going through shared trauma can bring people together. Whilst I wouldn’t exactly call The Woman in Black traumatic, all being scared by the same thing for two hours certainly helped bring my friendship group together. It was a great way of getting to know slightly more about people too. We saw who went for the ‘I’m too hard to be scared approach’, who was over-dramatic, who was a genuine movie buff and who just loved horror films. We heard who had a real blood-curdling scream and who let out more of a whimper at the jump scares.
Watching them with people you hardly know makes you all let your guard down and simply be scared for a few hours Whatever you think about horror films, they take us out of our comfort zone. Their selling point is the uncomfortable tension they create, that ‘monster under your bed’ worry of what’s about to happen next. And, watching them with people you hardly know makes you all let your guard down and simply be scared together for a few hours. It can help you learn just a bit more about each other and see how you all function in a setting you’re unlikely to find elsewhere.
Mamma Mia An absolute classic, Mamma Mia provides the perfect opportunity to bring the flat together in a night of terrible dancing, singing, and most importantly, 70s themed outfits! The movie itself carries an infectiously upbeat repetoire of ABBA’s greatest hits, all the while telling the story of a young girl, Sophie, attempting to find her true father upon discovering her mother’s diary entries about three possible men. With some of the best tunes and, of course, the addition of Meryl Streep, I challenge you to find someone who can resist this Greek fantasy. And, if your movie night goes well, there’s always Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again for next time! By Grace Marshall
Image credit (from top): Sophie Inkester, Ava Bridal via Flickr
Tuesday, 28 September 2021
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FOOD & DRINK food@palatinate.org.uk
Fast fixes for freshers’ flu
Several students discuss their personal remedies for how to combat your symptoms By Mary Atkinson reshers’ flu: perhaps the most inevitable part of moving to University. However, how do you get through it? We all have our own remedies and this is mine, learnt through my father growing up and while perhaps not the most unusual, it is effective, nevertheless. Firstly, to treat a sore throat: hot honey and lemon. The fresher the lemon juice the better, but effective either way; a dash of honey, or several spoons’ worth depending on your measurements and, as an extra, you can also add ginger or cinnamon. Ginger is sometimes referred to as a natural antibiotic. Other remedies I have learnt that aid freshers’ flu during my time at Durham include: increasing your vitamin C intake through juice or sachets, as well as making sure to eat healthily and normally even if you do not feel like it. However, when all else fails, you can’t go wrong with a steady supply of paracetamol or Lemsip to get yourself through the day. By Justin Kim vaguely remember freshers’ flu. Or at least people around me having it. Yes, folks, I experienced freshers’ week in its original form. Before the dreaded Covid-19 hit. Sounds mythical at this point, I know. But, regardless of your disbelief at such outlandish statements, there is a simple solution. Medication from the far east, if you would. This gem originated in Korea and all you need is leftover eggs after your pitiful try at an omelette, some water, and salt. Yes, it is that simple. If you have got some leftover vegetables and you aren’t sure how you’ll use them, cut ‘em up and throw ‘em in because it just works. When you eat the bubbly goodness that is gyren-jjim, I tell you, my friends, it is warm, soft, savoury, and best of all doesn’t require any real effort. Trust me: after a hangover, make a warm pot of it and just dig in. It holds back regrets for a while. Right until formatives from my experience. By Emerson Shams h the dreaded freshers’ flu, I’ve been lucky to say I’ve only had it once in three years. But, I’m even luckier to have my friends who all taught me these techniques to help prevent it. My cure is not a cure, but a proactive trick to stave off the worst of it. It’s a cocktail of medicine, of vitamins and of food. Though I must start by saying nothing helped me more to avoid freshers’ flu than wearing a mask. That’s right, I did it pre-Covid-19 and it worked. But, even if I catch it still, you’ll find me taking all of this every morning, until at least November. Every morning I have a spoon of 蜜煉川貝枇杷膏 [Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa] (the most important and delicious thing listed that can be bought from the Everyday Oriental market in town), a spoon of manuka honey (the strongest one), vitamin D supplements and warm soups for lunch.
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By Nia Kile ot all freshers’ flu remedies must be healthy, nutritious and full of vitamin C. When you’re suffering from an unrelenting cold, the last thing you’ll want to do is eat a plate of overcooked broccoli or down a fiery ginger shot. Sometimes, the best way to fight fresher’s flu is to eat something that brings you comfort and fuels the endorphins that have inevitably died down due to the first week of lectures. Chocolate melt-in-the-middle puddings are, therefore, the perfect remedy. After only 40 seconds in the microwave, these unassuming black pots are inverted onto a plate, ready to lift your spirits. Eat them straight from the pot, if you’re feeling really rough. However, you’ll miss the wonderful sight of the chocolate river that flows from the pudding’s centre when you take that first gooey bite. Requiring virtually no kitchen equipment, they are ideal for students in catered and self-catered accommodation alike. What’s more, they will only set you back two pounds for two in Tesco! No, they aren’t healthy, nor what your doctor would recommend. However, their warmth, soft texture and rich chocolate flavour will do wonders for the dreaded lurgy that comes with the start of university.
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By Nicol Tsang he first time I remember having this was just before my family and I went whitewater rafting. It was so spicy that it made me cry. However, it did stop me from getting hypothermia when we eventually capsized. Ginger tea is great for warming you up from the inside when you are bedridden, miserable and feel like your bones are frozen. Drinking it can also help soothe sore throats and stomach aches (though you are advised not to drink it if you’re having an acute one, as it could make it worse). Thankfully, you don’t need to make it quite as spicy as the first time that I had it for it to work. All you have to do is boil a couple cups of water, peel and chop up a few slices of ginger, and pop it into a pot along with a few tablespoons of brown sugar for roughly ten minutes. The longer you boil the ginger, the spicier your tea will be, so keep that in mind! Once it’s all ready, just curl up in your blanket and enjoy!
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By Josie Lockwood y the end of freshers’ week, you will inevitably be feeling a little worse for wear. The first few days of socialising and drinking can leave you worn out, and in desperate need of some TLC. My proposal is the perfect façade for if you want to keep the party spirit going, without dealing with the consequences the next day. My most trusted remedy is an orange and rosemary spritz. This mocktail is made with orange juice, a homemade rosemary sugar syrup, topped up with soda water. When served in a tall glass with some crushed ice, a slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary, the drink looks and tastes delicious. Packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, this remedy possesses anti-inflammatory properties that will soothe your symptoms and boost the immune system. Plus, it’s practically one of your five a day!* If you are still feeling particularly brave, you can turn the mocktail into a cocktail by substituting the orange juice for Aperol, and the soda water for Prosecco. Delicate on the palette, this drink will help ease your ailments and encourage you to bounce back. *Disclaimer: it is not actually one of your five a day, but you can pretend it is.
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Image credit: Victoria Cheng
CREATIVE WRITING creative.writing@palatinate.org.uk
Long story short Sarah Henderson and Eden Cain explore the world of Taylor Swift’s Evermore
Gold Dust
Peace for a wild thing
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I watch it dancing
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In the half light.
Gently, like a lover
he house breathes out
want to go back
The dust of yesterday.
To that oh so quiet place
Where the wind kisses me
Where the trees whisper my name
Bare feet tread on
In a language I’ve always known
Cloths of gold,
The hum of the forest far from home.
As tangible as
When a golden light filters through the
Lingering coffee grounds.
branches
Is this the morning breath
I’ll lay in her arms
That we are told to dream of?
Stretching out for more
Filling every corner with
Always more
The dawn’s unfettered warmth.
Cradled like a babe in the fallen leaves And when darkness sets in
The beams are crawling through
I will not be afraid
The spaces in the olive trees.
For who could feel blind
The birds are calling but
Under quite so many stars
You still sleep.
Here I can wander
Your forehead -
To the rhythm of the evergreens
Kissed and golden.
I will sing my secrets And let the flowers grow around my ankles
Sarah Henderson
A soft solitude, Peace within the wild things. Eden Cain
Image credit: Verity Laycock
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VISUAL ARTS visual.arts@palatinate.org.uk
Durham: a city of contradictions Visual Arts Editors Christian Bland and Nicole Wu discuss the different art styles that Durham has to offer
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he indomitable cathedral is an unmissable sightseeing spot for any Durham student - yet a new visit this autumn will prove an illuminatory experience. Luke Jerram’s world-renowned ‘Museum of the Moon’ exhibition has landed in Durham Cathedral having previously wowed audiences in Barcelona, Sydney and Hong Kong, to name a few. Suspended beneath the cathedral’s central tower, Jerram’s 7 metre replica of the moon is an ode to the mysterious celestial body that has inspired humanity for hundreds of years.
How we interpret any interreliance and connection between the art, ourselves and the setting as a collective Created using detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface, the artwork satisfyingly collides together the heights of astronomical research with creativity and applauds the power of humanity to create both large architectural masterpieces and revolutionary scientific discoveries. Additionally these two sides seem to be in mutual partnership as the illuminated structure quite literally shines the light onto the impressive stonework in the nave, meanwhile displaying the exhibition in the cathedral allows that certain ambience found in places of worship. It is simultaneously jarring but ethereal to turn a corner into the nave and see the huge structure sus
pended amongst the pews and lecterns. The spherical shape and NASA digital imaging directly juxtapose the interior of the cathedral yet, the glowing luminescence of the moon adds to an ethereal aura which permeates Durham Cathedral.
Simultaneously jarring but ethereal Amassing long queues outside the cathedral, Jerram’s exhibition is proving to be extremely popular already since opening in mid September. While to some visitors the exhibition may simply be an aesthetic Instagram post, the real artistry of bringing Jerram’s work to Durham Cathedral belongs in how we interpret any inter-reliance and connection between the art, ourselves and the setting as a collective. The Cathedral housing this acclaimed exhibition stands tall alongside the boldest structures in Durham, a city famous for its architecture fusing tradition and modernity. The stunning Gothic interior dates back nearly a thousand years – yet remains impactful – its intricate maze of arches and vaults creating a timeless grandeur. The exterior’s flying buttresses and enormous arcs are equally elaborate, exuding conviction and authority. With an envious hilltop location, it can appear the perfect place to catch a view of the city, but Durham folklore dictates students who climb the tower won’t graduate. Luckily an ornate design, that has dazzled since the Norman era, will leave you with plenty to enjoy from your favourite Palace Green spot in the meantime.
An ornate design ... has dazzled since the Norman era On the flip side of Durham’s architectural coin is the divisive Dunelm House. This self-effacing structure recently received Grade II protection, so love it or loath it, it
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is here to stay. Designed to be as simplistically functional as possible, Dunelm is the centre for the Students' Union and faces off the Cathedral from across the river – making for an intense staring contest between two contrasting times and tastes. The monolithic design undeniably recalls the worst of Hull and Coventry, but its historical significance, if not concrete-heavy appearance, means it remains an essential stop on any architectural tour of Durham.
Love it or loath it, it is here to stay This divide is replicated across collegiate accommodation. The Bailey is elegantly Edwardian, showcasing symmetrical designs, stone exteriors, and in some cases, quaint front gardens. The Hill, by contrast, boasts a plethora of strikingly modern and postmodern architecture. For instance, Trevelyan is a hexagonal display of bare-faced concrete and empty windows, while Josephine Butler combines traditional and contemporary fashions – walls of glass, open floorplans and building materials from different eras. The results are striking and diverse, making a tour of Durham like walking down a timeline of British tastes. It is beautiful and charming in a unique sort of way, and bound to make an impression on any new students. Image credits (from left): Nicole Wu and Beatrice Law