Backdated Post: June 26, 1990

In Dublin now. Just a few quick observations. We went to a shopping mall, opulent in its decor, stunnin in its grandeur. I hadn't thought the Irish capable of such, through the Irish wake is a good example. And American like myself, so used to color, images, and splendour, having finally settled down to Ireland as a drab country, and the Stephen's Green Shopping Mall was there. I found a strange solace in it, as though my green-weary eyes were excited and reassured once by the colorful possibilities. Dublin is brilliant, absolutely teaming with life. Grafton Street is more yuppie than I expected, and, apart from the people, not the least bit charming. Though I haven't read "Ulysees," I am sure James Joyve would feel quite at home with modern Dublin, characters abound. From the beggar children and buskers, to men with limp's, punks with attitudes, and children.