Charles Dickens and Zamenhof

The Zamenhof celebration in Aberdour Boat Club has its own traditions and atmosphere. No doubt one of the reasons is the extraordinary location of the Boat Club beside the harbour. (The News Archive contains many photographs which make this clear.) This year (6^th December 2003) these factors were still there, of course; but the difference was the comparison which was made between Zamenhof and the famous English novelist, Charles Dickens. 

David Bisset in his talk emphasised Dickens as a lover of humanity; as an advocate of social justice; as someone who deeply cared for the poor and the outcasts. He felt that the Good Doctor had similar concerns: nay passions. Therefore the selection of Charles Dickens for particular attention was entirely apposite.

David also indicated that Dickens had a genuine link with architectural and urban history. London is enmeshed in his literary output; so that the visitor to London can never escape the presence of the great writer. He mentioned in particular a visit to the ancient Church of Old St. Pancras and its surrounding churchyard. The church is near the British Library, but finding it at present is not easy because of the enormous railway project which is taking place in the vicinity. This is connected with a new terminal for journeys to continental Europe; but incredibly Dickens described an equivalent transformation of the environment near to Old St. Pancras in his novel, Dombey and Son; this was a result of the railway crashing through North London in 1863.

A genuine surprise followed: David Bisset read aloud a few paragraphs from the translation of Pickwick Papers by Bill Auld! When had our Scottish master writer translated that novel? The answer was that he had begun the Herculean task a few years ago, but had to cease working because of failing health. Publisher Alexander Korjenkov from Kaliningrad had commissioned Bill; and now hopes that the great enterprise will be completed by other talented British Esperantists. Alexander kindly provided some Auld material for use at Aberdour. This was an poignant episode. 

The theme was continued in a Dickens quiz which Jean Bisset had assiduously prepared. It must be said that the results were satisfactory; but it cane as no surprise that our literary gurus, Diana and Norman Richardson came top of the list!

The final item in the programme was another pleasant surprise. Irene, the widow of Tom Allan, brought along slides of the much loved Zamenhof Festival which were held in their beautiful Victorian house during many years. This was a combination of history and nostalgia. David Hannah, the indefatigable Aberdour organiser, provided an impromptu commentary and wrestled with a recalcitrant projector!

Anne Eyre and Tom Neil

After this rich intellectual fare followed the customary food and drink. The celebratory cake was cut by Anne Eyre, who also made it! Conversation was vigorous; acquaintances were renewed; and then one-by-one the participants bade farewell and went forth into the dark winter night. The birthday of a modest genius had been celebrated once again!