Watching The Mousetrap was a great experience, especially as one of our first activities on the trip. This theatrical production has the longest run of any kind in the world (celebrating over 70 years). Because of this, I felt as though I was experiencing one of the hallmark pieces of English culture. 

Although I am sworn to secrecy about revealing the murderer’s identity, attending a production in the West End theater district was a great experience. I felt as though my classmates and I were following the advice of Virginia Woolf with regards to understanding and experiencing London’s culture. Woolf also valued theater, especially William Shakespeare (and his writing style). Although The Mousetrap is written by Agatha Christie and not Shakespeare, I felt as though I was engaging in a critical piece of English tradition. I would also later experience this same feeling while watching Orlando and Hakawatis.

 I was also reflecting on CLR James’ Letters from London while I was experiencing my first few days exploring London. James’ Letters from London serves as an alternative perspective to Woolf’s appreciation of London. James shares his perspective as a black man in London (in contrast to the white, upper-middle class perspective of the Bloomsbury Group). Like Woolf, James expressed his interest in London’s museums and exhibitions, especially with regards to the arts. James states, “That is why though I shall sometimes visit the Museum of Science it will always be on my way to the Museum of Art.”

James, like Woolf, believes there is more to discover in the displays of arts and humanities rather than the scientific exhibitions. Watching The Mousetrap and experiencing a part of England’s artistic history reminded me of James’ fondness for London’s arts. I too relate to James in that I would likely visit science museums, but only because it happens to be on my way to an art exhibition/performance.