Sunday in London

Every Sunday, the Englishman is raised to heaven by the choir, and then taken to her bosom by Mother Earth.

published 1820

King George IV 1820-1830

Introduction

In 1819, while on a five-year visit to England, American author Washington Irving began publishing his ‘Sketches’, which included the famous tale of Rip van Winkle. There were also a number of affectionately teasing reflections on the English. This extract from ‘Sunday in London’ picks up the Englishman as he makes his devotions in the parish church.

by Washington Irving 1783-1859

For a time every thing is hushed; but soon is heard the deep, pervading sound of the organ, rolling and vibrating through the empty lanes and courts; and the sweet chanting of the choir making them resound with melody and praise. Never have I been more sensible of the sanctifying effect of church music, than when I have heard it thus poured forth, like a river of joy, through the inmost recesses of this great metropolis, elevating it, as it were, from all the sordid pollutions of the week; and bearing the poor world-worn soul on a tide of triumphant harmony to heaven.

The morning service is at an end. The streets are again alive with the congregations returning to their homes, but soon again relapse into silence. Now comes on the Sunday dinner, which, to the city tradesman, is a meal of some importance. There is more leisure for social enjoyment at the board.

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Précis

Writing affectionately of Sunday morning in London, Washington Irving watched the Englishman enter the parish church, and described how deep an impression the sound of sacred music spilling out into the quiet streets had made on him. He then followed his subject home to dinner, a meal of more than usual significance for the family.

Sevens

Suggest answers to this question. See if you can limit one answer to exactly seven words.

What did Irving describe as ‘a river of joy’?

Suggestion

The sound of church music from afar.

Jigsaws

Express the ideas below in a single sentence, using different words as much as possible. Do not be satisfied with the first answer you think of; think of several, and choose the best.

Irving walked through London one Sunday. He heard music coming from churches. It moved him.

See if you can include one or more of these words in your answer.

IHeart. IIStroll. IIIStrike.

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