Central London is extraordinarily quiet and in places more beautiful than ever. The gardens in front of Buckingham Palace are bright, pristine and precise. Cyclists and pedestrians amble content – untroubled by fast traffic.
Oh, but this wretched mask business! Frustrated human connection is palpable – people half-run towards each other, hearts primed for a hug. Then remember and retreat. Awkward.
And I get it, of course – for all the touted conspiracy theories and protests, most are frightened, plainly enough, of an invisible enemy. But I hope a fearful humankind can re-member and reconnect when the longed-for new, new normal comes. Beautiful cities are meant to accommodate connected people.