(62) Memory

Memory is one of the two or three most important tools to the psychogeographer. Because of that it must never be relied upon. Case in point: our mission this morning. We cycled to Union Station seeking an image of a specific sculpture. In our memory it was a female figure and therefore POWcityblog fodder.

Union Station, built in 1927, is a handsome place to anchor any exploration of Toronto. Unfortunately, memory proves weaker, more fluid than masonry and iron. The sculpture we sought is actually a MALE figure! Our memory had failed us without the excuse of crystal meth addiction or even old age!

Still, our recollection of the sculpture as mediocre was confirmed by a closer look and this comforted us as did a couple of overpriced products from a nearby Barstucks. We remained a tinge disappointed for our audience as we had composed a witty, thoughtful posting about the way historical upheavals are often taken out on sculpture. We reflected on the fall of Communism in eastern Europe and the many likenesses of Stalin and Lenin now face down in parks like so many unselfconscious homeless people. We wondered if the Monument to Multiculturalism might one day be found in a parkette, idly inspecting its scabby knee and waiting for the liquor store to open. Either way, on the ride back to the POWcityblog bunker we acquired a few images, mere cartoons of the goddess, yes, but cheerful for that.