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Black and white Quote by Stella Benson

“London is a friend whom I can leave knowing without doubt that she will be the same to me when I return, to-morrow or forty years hence, and that, if I do not return, she will sing the same song to inheritors of my happy lot in future generations. Always, whether sleeping or waking, I shall know…” quote by Stella Benson
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““London is a friend whom I can leave knowing without doubt that she will be the same to me when I return, to-morrow or forty years hence, and that, if I do not return, she will sing the same song to inheritors of my happy lot in future generations. Always, whether sleeping or waking, I shall know that in Spring the sun rides over the silver streets of Kensington, and that in the Gardens the shorn sheep find very green pasture. Always the plaited threads of traffic will wind about the reel of London; always as you up Regent Street from Pall Mall and look back, Westminster will rise with you like a dim sun over the horizon of Whitehall. That dive down Fleet Street and up to the black and white cliffs of St. Paul's will for ever bring to mind some rumour of romance. There is always a romance that we leave behind in London, and always London enlocks that flower for us, and keeps it fresh, so that when we come back we have our romance again.””

Stella Benson

About This Quote

Source Novel: The House of the Spirits (fictional essay), early 20th century

London is portrayed as a steadfast, comforting presence that remains unchanged, offering continuity and romance across time.

In simple terms: London stays the same, giving comfort and romance.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate enduring places.

Themes

nostalgia continuity romance

Mood

reflective poetic

Type

literary descriptive

When to use this quote

  • travel writing
  • personal reflection
  • city guide
  • historical essay

Key Concepts

urban permanence place attachment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does familiarity shape our love of places?
  • What aspects of London change despite the constancy?
A Different Perspective

Romanticizing a city may overlook its challenges.

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