Think of a place… What kind of memories do you associate with it? The people, the seasons, what were you doing? What would you like to do if you could turn back time?
Genius Loci is defined as
- “the distinctive character or atmosphere of a place with reference to the impression that it makes on the mind.”
With my phone in my hand and the Notes app open, I typed the date, the people I met, what I liked and disliked about the location, giving it a personality, particularly in new locations. Your experiences and writing skills do not need to be considered in this activity, as long as you are honest and expressive.
It was a refreshing experience since I could now look back and integrate the new knowledge I had gained with the updated ones. Not only does it purify your mind, but it also clarifies and strengthens your sense of self. I also began observing activities and using other senses I usually don’t such as noticing sounds, observing certain odors and textures around me.
You could also take a step further by exploring why this location speaks to you, in a positive or negative manner. If you choose to write about a location you’ve stayed in for a long time, you could write about how you would like to change this relationship with it. Or else, you could write it down as it is.
Doing this was incredible self reflective and made me feel grateful for my experiences. I now do it as often as I can on my phone with multiple writings kept to reminisce. Giving yourself the main character life you deserve!
Here’s one made by me!
The High Line
4:36 pm: My eyes met with the lines of crowded streets. Endless cars rushed ahead. The winds greeted me unprecedentedly. Its force fierce and ruthless, urged me to hold tighter onto my jacket. Down below, the ice cream chimes and chatter danced around my ear. The ambience welcomed me. It also befriended other individuals. Unleashing their creativity to writing and sketching. Couples huddled against each other with a warm drink in their hand. The sun played peek-a-boo with us. It highlighted the nature stripped bare at the cusp of spring. I was at ease. Crisscrossed, my friend and I sat on the wooden seats supported by tiny grey stones. Pink dyed locks flew to my face. My friend had turnt to me and pointed ahead. The swarm of people along the corridors merged into a blur of neutrals. Cameras in hand we captured the memory knowing that we’ve seized only a slice of what we’ve experienced.