Writing, Research, Digital Content
Original sound / audio captured by Colin J Campbell.
When you first arrive in Australia from Northern Europe, it’s definitely the sounds of the birds that strikes you early on. It certainly reminded me that I was far from home.
What sounds so normal and unremarkable to Aussies, really is so entirely different and exotic to a new arrival.
Aussie birds are noisy – fractious even – and those dramatic sounds are also mirrored by the lurid variety of colours and shapes they exhibit.
Have you ever stopped to listen to the city? Really listen to it in its entirety? Lifted your head and conceived of the symphony of noise that demands to be heard?
Those impatient, abrupt noises that compete for life. Only existing, only validated, if they can are heard above the din.
Noises that rudely cut across each other, jostling in their selfish desire to make their way. Barging through over-crowded space.
The sharp, cutting noises that rent the air and scream most shocking distress. Inducting others into their state of madness.
What about those low rumbling noises that fluster and bluster their laboured, ‘oh so tedious points’. Unaware – uncaring even – that no one is listening to them. They know themselves well to be bores, yet they bore on, undaunted.
And what of the angry outbursts? Those abrupt loud BANGS that forcibly interject. They will not be ignored. They will make their point! In rage they subside as quickly as they flare. Until the next time.
There are as many noises in the city as there are souls. Some loud, some, flamboyant, some soft and anonymous. All shapes and sizes, all personalities and types. It just takes a close ear to know them, but in truth, few people take the time. Other peoples noises are not their business.
Why don’t you stop and listen to them, next time you are in the city?
But remember – and keep this to yourself – listening for noises is something best done on your own. Noises can be self-conscious. More than a few hide furtively when everyone stops to listen.
Mr Pip was a much-loved pal and family member, sadly taken far too young.
Always loved and forever remembered, his antics still make me smile to this day. He was a pup of great expectations and even greater character. We are so grateful to have known him and so sorry he is gone.
N.B. Mr Pip became something of a celebrity in his day and operated a very popular Twitter feed (not easy when you have no thumbs). His Vines were particularly popular and accrued a total viewing count of over 3 million views!
Now deep into our second restrictive lockdown in Melbourne, our singular daily exercise regime includes a walk around Fitzroy Gardens each day.
The sounds that I hear, even on this one, very familiar walk continue to fascinate and delight.