An ode to the Underground

Londoners are big fans of silence. As a devotee myself, I’ve quickly adapted to the expected quiet on public transportation. In fact, I’ve begun to relish it. And while buses are nice to sit back and look out the window, I’ve found that the London Underground, usually just called the Tube here, is the best place in the city for some good ‘ole self reflection.

It’s a well known fact that Londoners expect quiet on the Tube. As someone who has a deep love of silence but hates physically being alone, the Tube is just about my dream scenario. Joke around loudly with your friends — especially during rush hour — and you’ll likely receive some glares from the locals. So, instead, you must sit or stand quietly as the stations rush by. Nowadays, normal protocol would be to quickly pull out your phone to check Facebook and Instagram and text or snapchat friends. But part of the magic of the Tube, besides the habitual silence of those riding it, is that there’s no phone service.

So you’re forced instead passively ride, bored and first, but slowly lulled into thought by the rhythmic motions of the train barrelling around deep underground. Your mind begins to wander to reflections on the day, the future, just about anything. By the time your stop arrives, you’re a little annoyed at the interruption.

Coming from a college campus full of students shouting across quads and loudly gossiping outside during lunch, London was a bit of an adjustment. But I’ve come to appreciate these moments of solitude, whether I’m with people or alone, riding the Tube, lost in myself.

It might even be a better place to think than the shower.