A Sketchbook of Edinburgh
I must confess that even now, weeks after my return from Edinburgh, I remain under the influence of that enchanting city. It was a place where history whispered from the cobblestone streets, where each corner told a tale, and where the scent of old books mingled with the crisp Scottish air.
One day, in pursuit of the city's history and a mild obsession with its bookshops, I found myself wandering through the labyrinthine shelves of one particularly charming establishment - Topping & Company Booksellers of Edinburgh. The city boasts an array of these literary treasure troves, each a haven for bibliophiles and history buffs alike. The variety of topics covered in these stores was staggering, ranging from ancient tomes of Scottish folklore to contemporary novels set against the backdrop of the rugged Highlands.
As I meandered through the narrow aisles, I stumbled upon a book that seemed to encapsulate the very essence of Edinburgh itself. Its cover, adorned with an artist's depiction of the city's landmarks, was postcard perfect, beckoning me to explore its pages. I was drawn to its watercolour sketches, each stroke of paint capturing the city's historic architecture and its picturesque vistas. It was a guidebook unlike any other, a small work of art that invited me to embark on a visual journey through Edinburgh.
What added an unexpected twist to this discovery was the conversation that unfolded with the two young librarians who shared my enthusiasm for the book. We leafed through its pages together, admiring the exquisite artwork and discussing the city's rich history. To my surprise, as we turned a page, I noticed the signature of one of the contributing artists, and my heart skipped a beat. There, amidst the sketches of this Scottish gem, was the work of a Romanian artist: Irina Cucu. It was a moment of unexpected pride and appreciation, a reminder that the artistic talents of our fellow compatriots could transcend borders and find appreciation in distant lands.
In that Edinburgh bookshop, I found not just a guide to the city but a piece of art that connected me to both the past and the present. It was a testament to the magic of bookstores, where stories, art, and history intertwine, inviting us to embark on new adventures and discover unexpected connections in the most picturesque corners of the world. And so, I left that bookshop with not just a book but a cherished memory of Edinburgh's enduring allure.
