If you are looking for a quirky gift for the ultimate Melbournian this Christmas, pick up a copy of When We Think About Melbourne: The imagination of a city. Jenny Sinclair’s book explores what makes Melbourne unique, why we are such an ‘it’ city and what our collective imagination can create.
Through music, art, literature, film, maps and transport, Jenny takes a trip through Melbourne – quite randomly – exploring the nooks and crannies of her imagination amidst the plethora of fabulous and funky images included in the book.
From the stereotypical stuff about history and landmarks, Jenny walks us through (or cycles or takes public transport) around our fair city and discovers so much more than your average guidebook.
One of my favourite chapters, called Special Places, talks about the layers of our city and includes a distinctive (and old) quote – “Football seems to be coming into fashion in Melbourne , and as it is a manly and amusing game we hope that it may continue to grow in favour until it becomes as popular as cricket.” (The Argus, 16 August 1858).
The chapter on Melbourne’s souvenirs also managed to bring a smile to my face – who amongst us doesn’t have a Melbourne tea towel lingering at the bottom of a drawer somewhere?
Ultimately, the book is about maps and the way different maps can represent a different Melbourne. From the early days of hand drawn pieces to the online versions available today, go on a journey with Jenny and discover your own Melbourne.
When We Think About Melbourne (Westgarth Books) RRP $34.95 is out now.
