Ringing the Changes (Paperback)

In this charming set of reminiscences, the author describes himself as an archaeologist, turning over "abandoned stones" to show us "a forgotten way of life". He takes a nostalgic but realistic look back to an era when travel was by steam train, water was heated by a copper boiler for a weekly bath, and washing a family's clothes was a three-day operation. He relates his story without sentimentality and indeed gives a sobering description of the terrible poverty of some in the nineteen thirties. In the course of describing his adult professional life, having served first in the Navy and then as a rector, the author traces the changes in social and religious life that he has witnessed. This helps us understand how times have moved on and also gives a unique insight into the character of the author who reveals himself to be a warm, modest person with definite but balanced views.