Dandelion 107

 

I ascend, amongst the slates, tiles, spires and domes, of the St Peter Port skyline. Surely shaped by its role as a cosmopolitan seaport. Integrating hints, of its visitors' and settlers, exotic cultures into its everyday way of life.

The garlanded High Street parallels the harbour front. Set three stories above it. Reached by stepped alleys, which run between the close set terraces. Or ramped roads, to either end.

Above it, lie the steep cobbled streets of the Old Quarter. Pastel painted and set about with hanging baskets. Small shops are sprinkled between residential property. Housing dominating, as the height increases.

The hard edged, dressed granite facade, of one building sets it apart. Seemingly perpetually in shadow, throughout the day. Its aspect austere, severe even, amid the soft colours and bright flowers, of its neighbours.

Hauteville House. Victor Hugo's home in exile (from Napoleon Bonapate's France), upon the 'gem of the sea' (as he called Guernsey). Where he was inspired to write his most famous works.

At his desk, in the Crystal Room, above the back garden. With sunlit views to the south, across the rooftops of St Peter Port, to: Havelet Bay, Castle Cornet, Herm, Jethou, Sark and the boundless ocean beyond.