Theory and methods

Discovering Hidden Stories in "Surfaces" the role of memory"

Introduction: Graham Livesey's "Passages" takes a different turn in Passage No. 8, called "Surfaces." In this part of
the book, Livesey helps us explore cities by looking closely at the outside of buildings and walls, revealing the
interesting stories hidden there.
The past is everywhere. All around us lie features which, like ourselves and our thoughts, have more or less recognizable antecedents. Relics,
histories, memories suffuse human experience. Each particular trace of the past ultimately perishes, but collectively they are immortal.
Whether it is celebrated or rejected, attended or ignored, the past is omnipresent.

Feeling the Past: "Surfaces" makes you feel like you're touching the past. Livesey's words make old walls feel rough
and smooth stones feel nice. And guess what? These surfaces have stories written on them, like a history book you
can touch.

HIMANI| Passages exploration of the contemporary city | 01 | 31/01/2024 |

 Theory and methods
• Time's Layers: Think of a city like a big piece of paper where people have drawn and written things over and
over. Livesey calls this a "palimpsest." "Surfaces" shows us how every layer of paint or rust is like turning the pages
of a big storybook about the city's past.
• Words Painted in Pictures: Livesey's writing is like painting with words. He describes things so well that
you can see the images in your mind. "Surfaces" turns normal city stuff, like peeling paint, into a beautiful story. It's
like looking at a painting and finding a story in every crack and peeling piece.
• City Stories - Old and New: This part of the book makes us think about how cities change. Some parts get old
and tired, while others get a fresh start. "Surfaces" asks us to look at the broken bits and the shiny bits and think
about how cities are always changing, just like our own lives.
• Seeing What's Usually Missed: "Surfaces" shows us things we might not notice. Livesey points out the
small, special details we often ignore. He helps us see the beauty in things that are a little worn out. It's like finding a
treasure in something most people might pass by.
• Wrap-up: "Surfaces" by Graham Livesey turns exploring cities into a cool adventure. It helps us see that there's
more to the outside of buildings than just walls. Each surface tells a story, and "Surfaces" makes us want to pay
attention and discover the amazing tales hidden in plain sight.

HIMANI| Passages exploration of the contemporary city | 01 | 31/01/2024 |