London Residents Challenge Right-Wing Narrative Against Cities
Elderly Londoners and long-term residents are speaking out against what they describe as the political demonisation of the capital, defending its multicultural character and vibrant community spirit. Their responses come following Jonathan Liew's recent article addressing right-wing condemnation of London and other British cities.
Personal Experiences Challenge Political Rhetoric
Marian Borthwick, an 80-year-old who chose to retire in north-east London, describes her experience as one of welcome and joy despite political characterisations of the city as a 'no-go hellscape'. Having previously lived in Devon and Hampshire, she specifically sought out London's multicultural environment for her final years, finding the city's cultural offerings and community spirit unmatched.
'I find the people friendly, the young polite,' Borthwick notes, highlighting that as someone who walks with a stick, Londoners consistently make space for her on pavements and public transport. She particularly observes that young men, including those of Asian descent, regularly offer their seats on tubes and buses.
The Urban-Rural Divide in Quality of Life
Another London resident, Susan Hemmings, contrasts urban and rural living experiences, emphasising how city life supports accessibility during darker months. 'This time of year, as the darkness begins around 4pm, I can still walk my dog along sparkly lit streets, pop into a cafe or visit a friend,' she explains, whereas village life requires 'battening down the hatches' or car reliance.
Bob Bunn, who has lived in London for seven years but worked there for over four decades, identifies the political motivation behind city criticism. 'The demonisation of London, and cities in general by the right wing is simply because we are not part of their tribe,' he states. 'We are everyman, colour, creed, language, cuisine, gender, religion and every other human variation.'
Balancing Urban Benefits with Environmental Concerns
Not all responses were entirely celebratory. Charlie Swan from Clare, Suffolk, while agreeing with much of Liew's defence, questioned whether cities represent 'the fullest expression of what it is to be human.' Swan argues that cities disconnect people from the natural world, with wildlife limited to pockets and stars largely invisible.
'If cities like London are the fullest expression of the human condition, our future is a bleak one,' Swan warns, referencing research showing Britain as one of the least 'nature-connected' nations.
The correspondence also included factual corrections and statistical challenges. Nik Le Saux from Brighton noted Liew overestimated motorway connections to Brighton, while Rosie Smithson from Felixstowe challenged selective use of knife crime statistics, pointing out that while Suffolk saw a 50% increase compared to London's 1%, London's rate remains 182 per 100,000 compared to Suffolk's 35.
Collectively, these letters present a nuanced picture of London life that contradicts political characterisations, acknowledging both the city's vibrant multicultural community and the complex trade-offs between urban and rural living.
