The author has a strong fondness for old china and enjoys visiting china-closets and picture-galleries in great houses. The author’s preference for old china is deeply ingrained and dates back to his childhood, although he cannot remember when it started.
The author describes his love for the whimsical and fantastical scenes depicted on china teacups, such as men with women’s faces and women with exaggerated feminine expressions. The author reminisces about the pleasure of acquiring cheap luxuries in the past, when he had to debate and save up for them, and contrasts it with the ease of buying anything he wants now that he is rich.
The author reflects on the joy of being poor and the satisfaction of making do with limited means, such as wearing threadbare clothes or enjoying simple meals during outings. The author laments the loss of certain pleasures, such as going to the theater in the gallery and experiencing the anticipation and camaraderie of the audience, which he believes is diminished now that he can afford better seats.
The author expresses nostalgia for the past and the happiness he experienced when he was poor and young but acknowledges that his current wealth provides comfort and security in old age.
The author concludes by fantasizing about reliving the experiences of his youth, even if it means giving up his current wealth and comfort. He expresses a desire to go back to a time when he could enjoy simple pleasures and feel the thrill of overcoming challenges.
James Thomson Rule Britannia Summary
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