Bittersweet Beauty of Summer
The song “Summertime Sadness”[1] was playing in a shop, and I couldn’t help but pause and reflect on this musical motif, which is common in literature and lyrics for evoking feelings of sorrow. Typically, summer is associated with joy, happiness, and freedom. I find it hard to imagine such sadness in Ireland—a country known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning nature, and kind people. How could one feel sad amidst such beauty?
[1] Written by Lana Del Rey and her long-time collaborator, Rick Nowels, the record was produced by Nowels and Emile Haynie.
When the plane landed in Ireland for the first time, I was greeted with a panoramic scene of lush greens and flickering bodies of water. It was as if I had stepped into a different planet where nature’s beauty was the norm, not the exception. I was immediately captivated by this breathtaking sight, which set the stage for the rest of my academic journey. With its bright green fields and endless coastlines, Ireland presents a charming setting.
When Ireland became my second home, I couldn’t help but feel deeply connected to its nature. The landscape, with its rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and serene lakes, is a gentle reminder of Earth’s beauty.
This connection is especially reflected in townships like Maynooth nestled in County Kildare. Maynooth captures the essence of Ireland’s allure, where nature’s beauty is particularly felt and seen. It is more than just a university town; it’s an experience. Situated in the stunning Irish countryside, it offers a unique blend of academic excellence and peaceful residential life.
The town is blessed with green areas that envelop the historic Maynooth University and castle. The campus, a combination of modern and ancient buildings, is a sight to behold. One of my favorite new habits is to take a walk around the campus before or after a lecture. It allows me to clear my mind and get some inspiration for my writing. This simple practice, done daily, helps relieve any stress and makes one feel rejuvenated and balanced.
Can we take a moment to appreciate Maynooth’s beauty?
The town is already beautiful, and the rivers Rye and Lyreen make it even more so. The gentle flow of the rivers can be seen and heard throughout the town; the sound of streams trickling over stones and trees, and the sight of seagulls flying gracefully create a living scene that soothes my soul. It’s the kind of town where one can enjoy nature in every corner, feeling the stresses of life melt away. Yet, even in such a beautiful setting, summertime sadness can find its way into one’s heart with the new beginning. Perhaps it is the fleeting nature of summer that brings about this feeling. In Ireland, summer is a brief, magical time when the weather is just nice enough to enjoy outdoor activities. The long days and short nights create an illusion of endlessness, yet they pass all too quickly.
One can’t talk about Ireland without mentioning the weather, which is notoriously unpredictable! Incidentally, the weather is one of the common topics for small talk here. While waiting for the bus, a sunny day can suddenly turn into a rainy one! Always be ready with your rain jacket. The ongoing weather changes can mirror the ups and downs of life, causing mixed emotions. This bittersweet feeling fades when I remember that good days are coming.
In Maynooth, as in the rest of Ireland, the beauty of nature is stunning and remarkable. Yet, this beauty serves as a tangible reminder that time is slipping away. Summer vibes, with their bright colors and light breezes, soon give way to autumn’s golden tones and the chill in the air. The sadness of summer’s end is balanced by the promise of the seasons to come, each with its own unique beauty and charm. It’s truly magical—a reminder to stay true to ourselves and embrace all our emotions. This cycle of seasons, while natural, can evoke a sense of longing. So, let’s enjoy the summer weather in our free time.
Summertime sadness in Ireland, therefore, is a reflection of the beauty and impermanence of life. It’s a reminder that even in the most beautiful places, sadness can find a place in our hearts. Yet, it is also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, finding joy and beauty even in moments of melancholy. In Ireland, the sadness of summer’s end is tempered by the promise of the seasons to come, each bringing its own unique beauty and charm.
