K in g s Co u r ie r KING’S COLLEGE, NEWCASTLE, IN THE UNIVERSITY OF DURHAM

Vol. 4 No. 2 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19th, 1951 Price 3d. DEAR BOYS OF DURHAM WELCOME TO OUR ’UMBLE

A WEEK past Sunday Mr. Bryan Coleby and our- selves had occasion to confer with our opposite numbers in the dreary city. We arrived at Palace Green at 3.30 and, although we had telegraphed our coming, we were pleasantly surprised to find someone waiting to meet us. He turned" out to be Mr. Payne, Vice- President of Durham “Of course.” we said. S.R.C. He was a Hatfield “This here”—he kicked the man . . . of course. bottom of- the college until it After a preliminary skirmish trembled—“is the old city wall. we were taken to a concert for In the past j . .” the Freshers. We listened to “I told them about that, some pleasant singing and a Edwards.” delightful sketch portraying a “Right. Let’s look inside.” Castle charlady. We were The door was locked. treated to tea in town, where “I say, that’s queer, eh we were cramped but happy. Payne?” From there we traversed', in­ “Damned odd. Never known it numerable unnecessary hills to before.” reach the Palatinate editor’s We said nothing. digs, which are in Professor “We’ll use the end door, boys.” Colgrave's house overlooking We walked to the end door, the river. We stayed a while passing on the way what we here, talking of student councils, were obliged to believe was the newspaper publics, and other remains of a medieval .cesspool. neurotic symptoms of decadence. “Well,” we said, after the end After a swig of gin, shot through door had been banged and with vanilla essence—they said kicked and rattled for five it was Cointreau—we recon­ minutes,” you know your own quered the banks and reached doors better than we do . . .” Hatfield. “There’s a knack in this door,” Payne replied. He lay down and Courtesy HATFIELD COLLEGE Palatinate SCOTS HOSPITALITY passed his arm through a hole “Now . . | ,” they said. We near the bottom. “The game is expedition also fell off the coll gathered that the best part of to get at the latch from inside.” It was locked. We returned room attendants, who takes a with the news. They were good serious view of the conditions in and eight porters were killed. the evening was ' imminent.' “Ah, yes,” we said. He rose. Durham. Col. Bimie described the “Now, we’ll show you round, if “What it wants is someone enough to find us alternative accommodation. The liquid We received this letter in dangers involved, and explained you like.” with a longer arm.” His eye return from the Editor of that the expedition failed only We didn’t, but we gave way. roved about, exempting Coleby soap container was empty, and we used an oleatic residue Palatinate:— because of a snowstorm. He After some moments it became and indicting us. We lay on the Hatfield College Durham. concluded his very interesting evident that the most rudimen­ cold, dirty stones and did our which the rural editor stripped from the splashboard. 11.10.51 talk by outlining his reasons for tary precepts of hospitality best to get at the latch from What gave you the idea that believing that Mallory and were unknown in the place. So inside. “There’s no towel for you, I’m afraid.” we put soap on mushrooms? I'll Irvine reached the summit and we asked to be shown round the When we rose the others had put that cm the list of King’s ab­ were killed coming down. After­ back. They completely mis­ walked to the other end of the Dripping and silent we normal practices. Or is it just wards he answered the usual understood our delicate cir- back to make sure that the entered hall. We were well fed, bad writing? questions and explained the cumdiction and showed us out tradesmen’s door wasn’t open. but our favourite amusement— Hope the block will serve. objectives of the present ex­ to the back. Here they waved We joined them, seeking to the one with the celery—was Thanks for leaving the sheet pedition, which is making the expansively—“This is the back.” verify our suspicion that to get spoilt by the noise of conversa­ tion. We were introduced to the blank on this side; but, of attempt by a route never We nodded, rather distrait. We to the front door we should course, you can afford extrava­ previously tried. B.C. noted the gravel, the cultivated have to scramble down through assistant, editor of Durham Rag gances at K ing’s. S tory fo r wild flowers, the gravel, the the brambles, walk along the Pie, but our evening h a d original city wall, the discarded path, through the town, up the already been spoilt. you . . . Palatinate’s bankrupt. COL. BIRNIE AT KING’S £100 debt for the year, and no­ (COLONEL BIRNIE was the toothbrush, the old lavatory hill, and back through Palace Next we were shown some body to take over — assistant seats, the gravel .... Green. It was verified. Our rooms in the new block. The editor going to Oxford, news I p guest of “Courier” to tea “That’s the boathouse, down comments were interrupted by furniture was new, but the in the Union on the afternoon there.” We walked to the edge the rural editor, who began to poetry on the walls was very editor re-sitting June exams., of his lecture. of the bank and peered vacantly make a noise on the servants’ old. . . . having failed. We found him very willing to into the evening halflight. window; gently at first, then Then across to the library. In You have my permission to talk to us about his adventures the old block there was no light laugh. Tactlessly, they prattled on . . with adandoned insistence. Paul. on Everest, and particularly “Rather a good boathouse, that. “Damn her,” he said, “she in the hallway, so of course we Since receiving this letter we the difficulties of the descent Roomy, y ’know. On the river, wont come.” We tramped the tripped over a mat. Upstairs, have heard a rumour to the when his feet were frostbitten too. Very handy.” gravel until we came to a in the library, a gramophone effect that certain people sug­ and he had to crawl over the We said it must be. lighted bay window. At the recital was about to be set free gest an amalgamation of Courier ice to nurse a member of the “ We get all our boats into it. window stood two men. We for the benefit of the Freshers. and Palatinate. This would of expedition who had pneumonia. There’s one of yours there, in­ gesticulated until we discovered Riding out into the night on a course be A GOOD THING for He told us also of the Tibetan cidentally. Must have drifted they could hear us. blast of Wagnerian resonance Palatinate. lady who attached herself to down.” “The door’s been locked,” said we met a young lady looking the party on the grounds that “We’re on the Tyne.” Payne, “and we’re showing for Verdi. one of the porters was her “Eh?” people round.” We were about Cutting into Payne’s explana­ “EVEREST" brother. The relationship was We're on the Tyne.” to add our views when one of tion that he had gone down we Colonel E. St. J. Birnie never established. Oh! Rather odd, that!” the men left the window and escorted her to the music room. i^O L . BIRNIE began his talk Colonel Birnie is secretary of The rural editor now took opened the door. On our way back we were ^ with a brief resume of the the Children’s Society (formerly over. “That’s the river down “The door is locked at seven,” hailed by two more Freshers, history of mountaineering — Waifs and Strays) and told us there. You can see the water.” he told our guides gently. this time from St. Hilds. We how a century ago British of his work and plans in that “Beside the boathouse?” “ Yes, sir.” deputised for our hosts again. climbers, having conquered field. It transpired that he He grunted. “There’s a path The master smiled at us and All three were very charm­ our own mountains, turned to knew one of the boys at a local along, and no railing, so we retired. ing . . . Switzerland and overcame these home of the society, whom we can’t be locked out. We just nip “Now,” we said pointblank, A conference of senior peaks one by one. British have ourselves taken out for a up the bank and slip in the back “where’s the cloakroom?” students was now held, and, it climbers led the field but were day; and from there we found way. It’s hard on the nylons, of “Along there. The door being close on 9 p.m., it was not so foolhardy as Austrian a great deal to discuss about course.” marked Fire Escape.” judged that at least one pub in men, who often imperilled the various methods and aims of the town should be open. We themselves to provide a spec­ people who help children. entered one; one with the old tacle. We have received the follow­ notice, first hung in Solomon’s Attention then turned to the ing letter:— apartments: “Patrons are re­ Himalayas and many of these Dear Nicholson, quested to stand still while the were climbed. The attempt on I am just back from Newcastle room is in motion.” It was, of Everest was delayed by the and I felt I must write and course, new to Hatfield, and Tibetan Government who said thank you very much indeed for they indicated it with the heavy that an opportune time would the very kind hospitality of casualness so frequently found be indicated by the gods. The your Students’ Union. I not only among the local boys. Out of first attempt was in 1924 by very much enjoyed my visit but politeness we sat listening to Mallory and Irvine, but it is not the half-hour in your library, stories of the most painful known whether they succeeded. which you so kindly arranged decrepitude until someone men­ In 1933, Col. Birnie and others for me, was of tremendous value tioned Dean Arlington, whom who had just climbed some to me before my lecture. we have always looked up to as 25,000 feet peaks were selected Thank you also very much for a sort of provincial Kipling ever as the nucleus of the expedition, escorting me back to the “ Lit. since we first heard of his and the remainder taken from and Phil.” homilies to Eton new boys on the pick of British climbers. I am sure you will be glad to the virtues of hard mattresses Col. Birnie claims no special Hear that we had a very good and a Spring diet excluding ability for himself—he is just “a attendance indeed at the lecture spice cake. cavalryman fond of walking.” and I hope very much that they Upon that provocation we He showed slides indicating all enjoyed it. They certainly left . . . the nature of the locale, the received me most kindly. monasteries and the people. He Remember me, please, to, your described their contact with the "explorer" and I hope his next Embellish menl local population, and how they expedition will be a success. taught them English games. He I hope at some future date I sent a bottle of liquid mentioned a Tibetan dog which shall have the pleasure of meet­ soap to Hatfield College, joined them and would not ing you again. VIEW FROM PALATINATE EDITOR'S ROOMS with instructions for use. It was leave. It slipped off the North Yours sincerely, Photograph • Nicholson supplied by one of our cloak­ Coll and was killed. Part of the E. St. J. Birnie, Page Two KING’S COURIER Friday, October 19th, 1951 KING’S COLLEGE DRAMATIC SOCIETY rriHE results of our question- King’s Courier Films Theatre -*• naire have now been ORSON WELLES’ worked out, and have been of DAY OF WRATH some help. As a preference in Newspaper of King’s College, Newcastle, “OTHELLO” Dramatic Art, Comedy was well in the University of Durham npHE trouble with most rpH IS production has caused to the fore of its nearest rival, reviews—whether of novels, much controversy, and I Tragedy. Amongst those who plays, films or exhibitions—may have not met two people, who, filled in the questionnaire, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19th, 1951 having seen it, have the same Shakespeare was, as expected, for most of us be summed up opinion concerning it. To my the favourite great dramatist Vol. 4 No. 2 thus; they are never on hand mind this is a compliment to Mr. with a substantial lead over when wanted. We read the Welles. It was not the perfect Shaw. We were given altogether THE UNION, COLLEGE ROAD, NEWCASTLE paragraph in the journal today performance, but it has stimu­ a list of about sixty plays which —it may be six months before lated argument, which is always people would like to see and a PHONE 200581 a healthy sign in the theatre. large number of useful sugges­ we encounter the object of the As a personal opinion, I tions. Editor: Rag Editor: critic's appraisal. By then we would class “Othello” and “King Has it been worth the trouble? can no longer recollect the Lear" as Shakespeare’s two most As an eternal optimist, I must N. NICHOLSON J. METCALFE opinions in order to test them. exacting parts. “Othello” ranges answer “Yes." We have at least through all* the realms of Those of you who read this some indication of what you Assistant Editor: Women’s Representative: emotion, going from the sane to want. The figures, although not will either have seen DAY OF MISS A. MILBURN the half-mad. To play the part, large, are sufficiently indicative, P. S. SAHNI WRATH or, having missed last an actor must have both an in­ and show a definite trend in week's opportunity, feel little born sensitivity and fellow- opinion. Altogether only one News Editor: Advertising Manager: interested. Those who saw the feeling with Othello, and every hundred and twelve people were gesture and artifice known to J. MILLONS W. A. WALTON film will not want to be told sufficiently interested to fill in stagecraft. I cannot agree that a form. This, however, was not what they felt when,' the victim Mr. Welles had enough of either Reporters: unexpected. We are well aware poised above the flames, her of these “sine qua non’s” to do of the apathy with which B. N. COOKE screams suddenly cut short as justice to the part as I feel Dramatic Society is regarded in she faced the penultimate Shakespeare conceived it. Mr. most circles of the College. We J. NEALE moment of her ordeal, this Welles must have relied on his are also prepared to admit that sincerity to carry him through, harrowing sequence reached its some of the fault is our own, REVIEWS for none can doubt that quality and are seeking ways to remedy climax. in him. Unfortunately, it was Films: Art: the matter. To do this it is One wonders how the play, not enough. He appeared to be necessary to have help and SCOTT CAMPBELL A. STEPHENSON from which Dreyer made his possessed of one basic gesture, co-operation from all students. which, although often varied, film, compares in effectiveness Therefore, it is regrettable that Music; Theatre: became monotonous. Mr Welles’ more people did not take the with these opening reels of bulk is against him, and - he opportunity to give us an indica­ J. HUDSON G. H. ATHY witch-hunt, the torture and the only served to make it more so tion of what they want from us. execution. by appearing throughout the Our last meeting was on greater part of the play in a (It must be not by any means Monday, the 15th, when we mock-Hamlet outfit. Shake­ ran a play-reading of Shaw’s a second rate work; John speare meant Iago to dominate “The Applecart,” which was pre­ Masefield translated it from the the scene, which was extremely dominantly for Freshers. Dur­ EDITORIAL Danish for an English produc­ difficult for Mr. Finch when he ing Rag Week there will be no could have been rolled three E have never believed in the principle that editorials should tion. meeting, but on the 29th o f this times into Mr Welles. Still, month the casting meeting of W refer to current events, but we suppose we shall have to say Surely the original play’s opinions differ, and although something about the Freshers. “Antigone” will be held. Any­ equilibrium must be very Mr. Welles’ histrionics when one who would like to take part We objected last year when the word “Fresher” was applied different from that of Dreyer’s falling into a trance (Act IV, in the production, either as an to us on the ground that it is a vulgar Americanism, but the screen play. Apart from the im­ scene 1) brought to my lips actor, or member of the stage modem Fresher, after all, is only a conglomeration of vulgar that ignoble word, “Ham!” ; I staff, will be very welcome. . Americanisms, with nothing remaining of his Anglo-Saxon heritage possibility of giving the persecu­ heard a voice behind me tion of Heslop Marthe as Finally, I would like to thank save a few picturesque monosyllables culled from The Two Young whisper “Magnificent!” all those who took the trouble to Ladies of Twickenham and suchlike able-bodied verse. This type, graphically as in the film, the Much can be said in praise of fill in our questionnaire. We with a sprinkling of Wendell Holmes’ “Women of both sexes,” con­ unfolding of the subsequent Mr. Finch’s Iago. He had the hope we will be able to requite stitutes our Freshers, and, indeed, all modern Freshers. They are story could never proceed at the right amount of what can only you by giving you the plays you almost ponderously slow tempo a product of precocious industrialisation and indiscrimate breed­ be called “slinkiness.” In fact want. B u s i n e s s M a n a g e r . used with so much effect by this ing. the furtive rhythm of his move­ K.C.D.S. In addition to being intellectually under starter’s orders, their director. Perhaps even to the ment suggested that he must film this might be accounted a manners in many cases compare unfavourably with those of have had associations with the fault—the long pauses of silence Ballet. It was unfortunate, primitive peoples. They are not well-behaved, only conventional; not and slow deliberate movement therefore, that in the first two frank, only tactless; not pleasant, only easygoing; not stimulating, reveal themselves here and scenes he was inaudible. It must Art only irritating; not tolerant, only unprincipled; not individualistic, there as conscious devices. In be admitted that I was sitting in YOUNG CONTEMPORARIES only nonconformist; not ambitious, only dissatisfied; not progres­ a less beautifully composed and “the gods,” but surely the An interesting exhibition of sive, only disruptive; not moral, only priggish; not educated, edited piece the fault would be theatre has not become so com­ pictures by young artists and only instructed; not wise, only knowledgable. more obvious, but Dreyer makes mercialised that “those above” students arranged by the Arts The females are not beautiful, only pretty; not colourful, only each shot so interesting in itself no longer matter. I can well Council and the United Nations gaudy; not well-dressed, only smart; not aesthetic, only fashionable; that we are "prepared to linger imagine what a producer of the Association can be seen in the not attractive, only desirable; not pure, only inexperienced; not on i t . with him, and forgo the old school would have said to Women’s Institute Hut, Cor- modest, only self-centred; not simple, only naive. speedier development of the an actor who was inaudible to a bridge. This is a selection from The males are not intellectual, only clever; not worldly-wise, action. In a less skilful film this balcony audience. However, the Young Contemporaries’ ex­ only coarse; not virile, only aggressive; not self-possessed, only long drawn-out use of nordic when we could hear him, Mr. hibition held in London last vain; not youthful, only incipient; and all of them may be dis­ weirds would become tedious Finch played with waves of year. The exhibition is very missed very briefly in Shelley’s immortal phrase “bloody decadent.” and the rather confused attitude brilliance rising from a sea of representative of most fashion­ towards the supposed powers of adequacy. able styles of painting, ranging the young witch (are we to Of the other characters, space from abstract to representa­ pianist was only able to offer a believe ■ in them or merely to allows little to be said. They tional and including the kind of routine performance. read her own belief in them as were eminently satisfactory, social commentary in paint of Next followed a group of the outcome of their deceptive although one felt that which the American Ben Shan is Chopin, consisting of the second confirmation?) — that ‘ is con­ Desdemona was too apt to the most accomplished ex­ Music fusion which we readily pass Bkllade, three preludes, two border on the coquette, and ponent. The exhibition is well POUISHNOFF RECITAL studies, the Nocturne in D flat over in appreciating these few Roderigo came much too close worth a visit by anyone. major, and the third Scherzo. yet convincingly drawn charac­ to being a mere buffoon. The Light refreshments are pro­ /"kNCE a musician has become Apart from some jerkiness in ters. Obviously to Dreyer, cast­ playing of Cassio was a sterling vided free and the exhibition is famous for his interpreta­ the Ballade and wooliness in the ing is of immense importance— performance, but the part does open 9.30—1 p.m.; 2—5 p.m.; and tion of the works of a certain Revolutionary study the group for him a face, unmoving, yet not call for extraordinary 7—9 p.m. An Arts Council guide, composer he must find a certain was extremely well played. lit so that it gains a maximum powers. Unfortunately, the name Barbara Naish, is there to talk amount of difficulty in con­ The programme ended with plasticity, is sufficient to tell of the lady who played Emilia about the pictures. vincing his public that he can pieces by Ravel, Pouishnoff, half his story, with no word does not appear on my pro­ also play the works of other Glazunov, and Liszt. Ravel’s “Jet spoken. J gramme, which is a pity, as she VAN GOGH AT composers. Pouishnoff is such a d’eau” was beautifully played; We are so used to bad was well worthy of notice. The production was extremely WHITLEY BAY musician; he, due mainly to Pouishnoff is unsurpassable in “costume” pieces at the cinema October 6th —20th a series of recitals given in 1926 this kind of music. His own that in Day of Wrath one is good, and very impressive. To Another Arts Council exhibi­ and 1927, in which he played “ Quand il pleut” and “ Petite almost surprised to Recollect criticise it is difficult, as one is uncertain whether to approach tion is being held in the Public the complete works of Chopin, Valse” show Russian influence that the actors were wearing Library, Whitley Bay, and con­ became known ever after , as and are two very pleasant the garb and moving against it as a piece of stage, or film technique. A lot is heard today sists of thirty-eight reproduc­ The Chopin Pianist, or The items. The study by Glazunov the background of days three tions of Van Gogh’s pictures. World’s Greatest Player of displayed the pianist’s amazing centuries gone. Dreyer’s film is of whether Shakespeare ought to be produced in the “grand These reproductions are the Chopin, or some equally silly technique; this is a real virtuoso perhaps not a milestone of best that modern printing can title. In his latest recital at the piece and was expertly played. cinema; it is a monument, rather manner.” I feel that if it is produce. Some of them have a City Hall, Pouishnoff showed The Rhapsody No. 12, while timeless, and which may be for­ always handled so masterfully three-dimensional quality which that he could play works by being dazzling from a technical gotten to be discovered again by as it was here, no controversy need arise. It did not eclipse suggests Van Gogh’s thick paint. composers other than Chopin. point of view had very little to awed newcomers. The pictures are from four The first part of the pro­ offer musically, and hence Shakespeare, but augmented his play. The grouping throughout important periods of his life— gramme consisted of the Bach- seemed rather a waste of the Paris, Arles, Saint Remy, and Liszt Organ Prelude and Fugue pianist’s time. NO MORE COURIERS? was well thought out, and that of the Senate scene (Act 1, Auvers. The interest of this ex­ in A minor, an arrangement of Pouishnoff generously hibition - lies in the fact that the Schubert “Rosamunde” rounded off his recital with a Mr. Nicholson, soi-disant scene 3) was particularly im­ Editor of “ Courier,” has such a comprehensive collection music by Pouishnoff, and the number of encores, the best of pressive. Mention must be made cannot be seen elsewhere with­ Moonlight Sonata. This well­ which was the Fantasie- apparently become tired of his o f the brilliant crowd scenes. I job before it has begun. For the got the impression of a con­ out a great deal of travelling on loved sonata seldom comes off impromptu of Chopin. the Continent. in the concert hall, and the J.H. last two weeks he has done his tinuous rustle of leaves on a best to dispel whatever en­ tree, and can say that I have The exhibition includes land­ thusiasm there may be in never seen such scenes better scapes, portraits, and still-life. College by complaining of lack produced. It is open during library hours of staff, lack of interest among That many will disagree with (9 a.m.—6.30 p.m.) and admis­ students, and so on. my conclusions I can realise, sion is free. He has been heard more than and feel, as I have said, that POESY once to suggest that “ Courier’1 this is as it should be. Space, THHERE yet remains in this be wound up and replaced by a unfortunately, does not allow dull world duplicated gossip sheet or wall the more detailed review that A simple beauty, half unfurled: newspaper. this production deserves. Mr. Honeysuckle, amberhued, Welles must be congratulated And milk-white foxglove royally It is true that the economics on having the courage of his of printing are getting more dewed; convictions, but I wish he had Wild hyacinths of Lesbian song difficult, but there is no call for been satisfied with his magnifi­ such feeble defeatism. Invade the woods in scented cent work as the producer, and throng; KURT ANSER. not attempted to play the Moor Wrecker lamps of bittersweet of Venice. And daisies humble ’neath your ENVOI (Continued from Col. 5) feet: That fragance the Elysian fields. The freshness of the wild, wild While our contributor was Deathless • on Life’s eternal rose. typing the above he was called scroll, The fairest flower the. wayside out of the office, so he tells us, A truer beauty can reveal knows; leaving the sheet in the type­ To those whose inward eye can Pass it not without a sigh writer with the heading “No see For all its beauty, soon to die: More Couriers.” The quiet gardens of the mind; But I delight in rarer flowers On his return he found that Where blooms of Love and Than grace your way through The Editor with Pouishnoff, who was his guest to luncheon at someone with a key to the office Charity childhood hours; the Royal Station Hotel, had typed underneath “Thank Are blowing in the spirit’s mind. The finer blossoms of the soul photograph • Mr. D. Harney God for that." B i s m a r c k B r o w n . (Continued at loot o / Col. 4) Friday, October 19th, 1951 KING’S COURIER Page Three

HISTORY AND SOCIOLOGY rPHOSE students who attended Professor Burn’s talk Letters To The Editor ^ in the series “Approaches to Knowledge” will be interested to read this criticism of it by Mr. David (The Editor reserves the right to lengthen letters for reasons of space.) Matthews, International House Fellow in Sociology at DE MORTIUS . . . Sir,— I write in protest against school and university. So he is the theme of your front page only jealous. Without any offence the University of California, 1950-51, and Millis Fellow Sir,— I have never subscribed article of last issue dealing with to our immediate predecessors, in Sociology at the University of Chicago, 1951-52. to the view that student organis­ the Freshers’ Conference. To the ex-Servicemen, people like Mr. Matthews is a former ations should be protected from those new students who did not ganisations. Examples of formal destructive criticism, but I feel your correspondent, have already editor of Northerner. organisations are churches, attend the conference the article had their lives moulded in a schools, universities, hospitals, that the space you devoted to the in question conveyed a jaundiced With reference to the lecture Freshers’ Conference in the last different pattern, and they came on “History and Sociology” factories, government depart­ impression—and, I hope, a false here to get degrees. That Is not ments and so on. Most sociological issue was (to say the least) ill one— of the relations between old given in the series bearing the analysis confines its attention to used. In the first half of his our idea. The presence of large title of (alleged) “Approaches the study of formal groups. The and new students; to those of us numbers of ex-Servicemen in sociologist studies an organisation "analysis” your correspondent who did attend the conference to Knowledge,” I wish to draw evaded any serious issue demand­ OUR universities during the last some attention to a remarkable as it is, here and now. The famous It Revealed the Editor of Nor­ five years was an abnormal con­ American sociologist, Robert ing of constructive criticism by therner as being a harsh, em ­ feature of that talk, i.e., the ad­ Lynd, takes the view that “our relating his unlikely adventures dition. It is actually we—the bittered, and apparently elderly mission by Professor Bum that problems, however much con­ with a specimen Freshman. These Freshers direct from schools— ditioned by the past, are in the student. It seems that it has, in­ he had very little knowledge of were pieced together by satirical who have built up the glorious the subject matter of sociology. present; that the present is an deed, been his “irrevocable blun­ university traditions through cen­ era of the widest, most rapid, descriptions of the “dramatis per­ der” to spend so long a period From what the writer can recall, and most complicated cultural sonae” which seemed as irrele­ turies, and It is we to whom the at a university if, during that Professor Burn talked about change . . . our chances of cop­ vant as the author’s travels. The universities belong. If your ing successfully with current time, he has not succeeded in cul­ some enquiry in regard to the remainder of the article left him correspondent finds it difficult to problems depend to no small ex­ tivating a sense of toleration for social attitudes of dance band tent upon our ability to throw free scope to crash his way like adjust himself with us, we are leaders. There is an article in off tradition and to handle our our youth. Undoubtedly we are sorry for him. an Intellectual thug through a young, sir, and, most likely, we the September issue of the problems freshly in the light ox personal version of the very new knowledge and techniques . . are hopeful, but at the moment Yours, etc., American Journal of Sociology fashionable gospel of despair. the analogical appeal to past situ­ my sincerest hope is that our stay F resher D irect fro m S chool —by a graduate student in a ations tends to blur precisely That this popular pre-war cyni­ at King's does not take us into minor American university—on those elements of greatest hope . .cism should creep into the univer­ those realms of intolerant senility and P roud O f It. this topic so, presumably, Pro­ namely, the new factors which sity is, I suppose, inevitable, but enthroned by the Editor of Nor­ were not present in the earlier therner, whose excursions from fessor Burn had read this. Now, at the policy level of Northerner whatever Pro fessor Burn’s situations . . Lacking an ade­ his cloister seem to be merely quate set of theoretical postulates it is disastrous. to pour libellous venom on the KEEP IN TOUCH WITH . . merits as a historian, he is as to how human nature behaves, Your correspondent is sensible heads of we, almost defenceless, hardly qualified to pass com­ historians tend to take over im- enough to realise that when a Freshers. To quote Professor ments on a discipline in which licitly either (or alternatively Daysh’s metaphor, I hope that our oth) of two theories— that men writer wishes to ventilate his stay produced a sound ripeness The Book Room he has (admittedly) had neither gare governed by hedonistic ulcers, his first job is to confuse and not an odiferous rottenness. experience nor study. It is rational choices, or that they do his public, thus preventing and While on the subject of criticis­ FOR NEW BOOKS AND what they do because they have protecting himself from concise ing editors, sir, may I also voice fashionable to despise the social reply. The impressionistic style ALL GENERAL sciences in this country and to to . . Uneasily aware of the in­ a criticism of you? 300 Freshers adequacy of either rationality or serves this purpose admirably, attended the conference; more LITERATURE elevate studies such as determinism as an explanation of and it follows that if clear than 500 did not. In your last philosophy to the highest place. how things have come to be as analysis would not suffice, the old issue of Courier there was no Which may have something to they are, some historians turned disguise of rhetoric must be word of welcome to these 500, Everyman Library to the ‘great man’ theory or to resurrected. However, confusion no word of explanation. Come, do with the appallingly low was achieved. (list available). standard of living we at present the theory of intruding events as come, sir, you are failing in your explanations of the dynamic An organised discussion group functions! W e Freshers constitute Penguins and Pelicans. “enjoy” in this feudal paradise. element. in past behaviour, only is always a little artificial, and it about one quarter of your readers. Mais, revenons a nos moutons, later to abandon these, too, as in­ was no surprise to me when 1 Is it too much to hope that you the most astonishing remark adequate.” But Professor Burn is discovered that the group I led will take your duties more still stuck with the “great man” was more interested in the geo­ seriously in tne future? made by Professor Bum was graphy of Lavatories and eating Our Monthly Catalogue can theory of history. (All social I am, sir. that sociology is the study of change is brought about by the places than the “Functions of the be sent on request. the individual being acted upon influence of outstanding indivi­ university." It Is also difficult for Yours faithfully, duals.) Let us try to see where those who have no university ex- by society. this leads. oerience to discuss university life. B asil V alentine . This remark is astonishing One of the things that Professor The only relevant talking points because it betrays the fact that Burn does not seem to like about left are those which are best W e admit the hard im­ THE BOOK ROOM its author not only knows sociology is that social surveys are thrashed out over coffee, and not peachment, and although it is nothing of sociology but that he apt to approach the “common In the academic chill of Kings rather belated , we extend our BRUNSWICK PLACE man” as to what he thinks about, Hall. Informality is not a matter likewise knows nothing of e.g.. King's College—if he is an of putting chairs in a circle. Des­ official welcome to all new NEWCASTLE 1 psychology. And just how a undergraduate in it. This is pite material disadvantages. I students. As for our editorial, historian goes to work with no ridiculous; says Professor Bum, found the group not at all reluc­ though it appears unduly harsh, Telephone 25827 more knowledge of people than it isn’t necessary to ask every tant to talk (encyclopaedic ques­ “Tom, Dick and Harry” what they tions aside) and very eager to its implication is based upon a that given by the sociological think about sometning — one pounce upon a stupid remark fallacy which has been spotted and psychological assumptions opinion about dustbins from an with the iconoclastic savagery already by one of our contri­ THE AGRICULTURAL current in the more myopic educated man is worth hundreds your correspondent appears to butors. —Editor . academic circles is a problem trom the “common man.” The admire. If the same people do not SOCIETY outstanding individual is the only manifest equal vehemence to your worthy of sociological analysis. one that matters. Now, if a soci­ article it will be because of its fTlH E aim of the student division An enterprising Dean once ologist wanted to find out what weary familiarity. How often Sir,— I write this not at all with ft. of this society is to encour­ asked a candidate for a Ph.D. sort of an organisation King’s have these philosophic tipplers a feeling of indignance but sin­ age interest in agricultural affairs College is. then, according to Pro­ reminded us of their bearded cere regret for the “poorly” by the promotion of talks and in history at an American discussions. A well attended university “What w o r king fessor Burn, he would confine maturity, and how seldom could limited imagination of your last his inquiries to those individuals they give it expression, except by week’s author of “An Established Freshers’ tea enabled new mem­ theory of human nature, of how who held office in the organisa­ existentialist criticism and the Event,” who cooked the “youth, bers to have their first insight people behave, do you use in tion. This is what Professor Burn vertical sentences they call pink and golden and all smiles,” into the working of King’s Agri­ your historical analyses?” and does, it would appear, when he noetry It may be that “exuberant meaning a Fresher. After reading cultural Society. she replied that she had none. writes “social” history. In this technologists” approach the uni­ the dreamt event, I feel con­ Viscount Allendale, speaking on way everything in the garden versity with a callous sales policy, vinced that some of the primitive “The Aberdeen Angus Breed,” “But you must have,” protested blooms beautifully and the status but there were a few (and I met non-freshers could really do with began the Michaelmas term’s the examiner, “or you cannot quo is maintained indefinitely— them) who came with questions the patronage of guiding angels series of Thursday evening lec­ explain what happens, can or so Professor Burn thinks. His­ to ask and fusses to make, and from that Brave NEW World— tures. This Interesting talk was you?” tory, devoted to the teaching of wiho were sufficiently cynical to for guidance into realm of that followed on the 12th October by the past qua tends to be decidedxy disregarded transport and patron­ pure Innocent mind, the freshness an extremely informative address Sociology addresses Itself to the conservative. One is therefore study ox social organisations. ising provocation from King’s of which the decaying mind of from Dr. Allan Fraser, the well- There are different sorts of or­ tempted to suggest that Professor Courier. your correspondent badly needs, known author of such works as ganisations and these different Burn’s talk would have been more Your correspondent was on a w e assure you that we are at "Sheep Production,” “Sheep Hus­ sorts lend themselves to different aptly called “Politics versus Soci­ sure thing in sneering at an your service, very eager to help. bandry,” “Farming for Beef,” kinds of classification. Broadly ology.” apathetic majority. They are the The article was concluded, “ w e etc. Dr. Fraser spoke in some speaking, the sociologist dis­ To anyone interested in what inevitable easy meat. His column are strangers.” Actually, you are detail about various aspects of tinguishes between two main sociology can do, I earnestly com­ could have been written months strangers. Universities are not sheep husbandry, and his 250- groups of organisations: what he mend Seiznick’s “T.V.A. and the ago (if indeed it wasn’t). I think meant for people fatigued with strong audience included members calls formal and informal or- Grass Roots,” a study of the for­ his time would have been better the experience of life. They were from Doth divisions of the society. mal organisation known as the spent in tracking down a mite of intended as places to mould the The Agricultural Society cor­ Tennessee Valley Authority (Uni­ precious originality than in bark­ characters of youth direct from dially welcomes new members to CHARLES FREEMAN versity of California Press, 1949). ing at seventeen-year-old paper school: It seems your correspon­ its swelling ranks. Meetings take And ior those who are interested dragons. dent had a period of military place on Thursday evenmgs in in a discussion of History versus R ichard C ook . sergeant’s hammering between the Department of Agriculture. Sociology at a proper academic Commercial level, I would suggest Karl Popper’s “The Open Society and Photographer Its Enemies” (Princeton Univer­ The Geographical Society sity Press, 1950). Popper is the FOR ALL COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS Official Group Photographer Professor of Logic and Scientific HE society began its 22nd year to King’s College Method in the London School of T with a well organised Economics. Freshers’ tea, followed by an in­ International House Fellow in teresting introductory address, 31 DRYDEN RD. (SO.), Sociology: University of Cali­ illustrated by slides, from Mr. GATESHEAD 9 fornia. 1950-51. Robert Young concerning his Millis Fellow in Sociology: Uni­ recent visit to Iceland. Tel.: Low Fell 76532 The society’s Journal welcomes R. WAUGH Ltd. versity of Chicago, 1951-52. contributions from all students for its annual publication. The Geo­ graphical Society heartily wel­ INTER ALIA comes all Freshers and other students by whom it has so far A s we walked from the Courier office on Friday we passed two escaped notice. women—ladies one might almost call them—of middle-age, on their way to the R.V.I. As we drew near one made a remark to the King’s College India TEXT BOOKS other which we were obviously intended to hear. Forum ERY little has been done in “Aye, yer don’t have to have brains to gerrin there. If yer’ve got V Newcastle in general, and King's In particular, to raise plenty money, that's all yer need. Yer can gerranything wi’ money.” something for Jamaica Relief Fund. India Forum, therefore, The number of misconceptions in this speech is truly appalling. takes the opportunity of celebrat­ STATIONERY (Crested) And we refuse to believe that the choice of ourselves as confidants ing Diwall (Festival of Lights) to organise a dance in the Union was anything more than coincidence. Refectory, 2nd November (Fri­ AT LOWEST POSSIBLE PRICES day). in aid of Jamaica Relief Fund. W e feel that the chance should not be missed by the students of King’s College of con­ tributing their share towards the THE STUDENTS’ BOOKSHOP humane cause of helping the (Proprietor: H. S. THORNE) grief-stricken people of Jamaica DRAWING MATERIALS —thereby strengthening the bonds of comradeship between the HAS NOW MORE COMMODIOUS PREMISES people of Jamaica and those of other Commonwealth countries. AND INSTRUMENTS AT For further particulars, please see 1 & 2 Claremont Buildings — BARRAS BRIDGE the Union notice board. I . S. D h il l o n . Telephone 24345 Hon. Secretary. 10% DISCOUNT TO ALL BONA-FIDE STUDENTS Freshers’ Smoke ON CAPITAL EQUIPMENT “ FTTHE idea of coming to a uni- UNIVERSITY TEXTBOOKS JL versity is not just to get something out of it, but also to put something into it,” said Prof. LARGE STOCK ALWAYS ON HAND Green, /tjie Dean of the Medical School, while speaking to medical Exercise Books with COLLEGE Crest now StockedFreshers last Friday. The occasion was Freshers' ORDERS RECEIVE QUICK PERSONAL ATTENTION smoke, held in the Women's ART SUPPLIES Writing Room—this explains total absence of ladies among the audience. Mr. Milligan, president of the Medical Sub-Council, was in the chair, and secretaries and Medical Book Department captains of various cluhs and societies were also present. The AT 99 & 99a PERCY STREET meeting was supposed to be very 4 & 6 RIDLEY PLACE Informal and to ensure this, there Telephone 21480 was BEER—free of charge. Phone 25927 NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE Page hour KING’S COURIER Friday, October 19th, 1951

BLAZERS, TIES, SCARVES, SQUARES, ETC. THE BERLIN FESTIVAL IN THE OFFICIAL COLOURS AT TOURING the first two weeks in August about 3 DEBATING SOCIETY million young people met in East Berlin to take 1VT ANY of you who attended part in the third World Youth Festival. People came to the Freshers’ conference f t h iX to n S will have already been to, and Berlin from all over the world to meet in friendship we hope enjoyed, one of our and to take part in a splen­ debates. These are held every marvelled at the way they had did programme of cultural week during Term, usually on overcome the immense difficul­ Saturday, sometimes through T H E OFFICIAL OUTFITTERS and sporting events. ties involved in having this the week; and in addition there Festival in a city still greatly are occasionally distinct lunch- to TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES damaged by war. Their organis­ hour debates. We feel that the Anyone who wished could go ing ability was surpassed only Debating Society is a society KING’S COLLEGE to Berlin no matter what their by their generosity. that should appeal to everyone being the largest politics or beliefs. About 1,700 Berlin, during the Festival, in the College—there you may went from this country, and the was a city of colour and gaiety. listen, and, we hope, venture SPORTS OUTFITTERS only restriction on their travel The streets were decorated with sometimes to speak yourself, to was that imposed by the West flags and banners and many discussions on a variety of in the North German Government who re­ monuments and other decora­ topics, some serious, some fused to issue transit visas to tions had been built for the humorous, and some a balance ------We can supply all your requirements for all sp orts------anyone going to the Festival. Festival. All this was in violent between the two, by members of This meant that the greater part contrast to the many bombed your College and often by very rapid tour but quite com­ of the British party went by sea buildings and scars of war. eminent people in the country. ON THE TOWPATH through the Baltic. A smaller prehensive for the time spent Nearly every nation taking We want you to use this society on it. CENATE trials have been section went via Austria where part in the Festival put on a (you are automatically a mem­ ^ taking place, and will no they met with difficulties in show of national dances and ber by virtue of your Union One of the main purposes of doubt be over by the time this passing through the U.S. zone, songs and items by individual membership and no subscrip­ the Seminar was that by form­ appears in print. For the infor­ The Americans used armed artists. The Soviet and Chinese tion is required). We want you ing personal friendships we mation of the uninitiated, the troops in attempts to prevent shows were particularly memor­ to use it primarily by coming to might help international under­ Senate Challenge Cup Races them reaching Berlin and many able, the performers having our debates. If you will, we standing on a student level, and are the senior races held at the were held up for as long as 10 been chofeen on the basis of want you to speak, no matter in this aim the Seminar suc­ end of the Michaelmas Term days in Innsbruck. The brutal competitions held throughout how short you may be. We want ceeded admirably. The beautiful for College First Boats. methods to which the military those vast countries. The you — a large request — to surroundings on the Starn­ Many volunteers have been authorities resorted were un­ cinemas in Berlin put on perhaps even speak for the bergersee and the high propor­ forthcoming for these coveted successful, however, and nearly special shows for the Festival motion; and we want you to tion of leisure time made it positions and King’s hopes to all who wanted to go to Berlin providing an opportunity for suggest motions that you would almost impossible not to estab­ have two Senate Crews to enter got there, .eventually. seeing the films o f many like 10 hear debated. (You will lish good relations. At the con­ this year. We hitch - hiked to Berlin different countries. As well as find a book for suggestions at clusion of our three week stay As interest turns from the through West Germany and this, exhibitions of art and the porters’ lodge). Above all, we were all most grateful to selection of these crews another since we possessed entry visas culture were to be seen in we want to see you at debates, our German hosts and recom­ important feature of Boat Club for West Germany we did not Berlin. During the fortnight of for our success depends on good mended that a Seminar be held life begins—the trials of the encounter any difficulties. At the Festival the I.U.S. World support. next year. novices, and here “trials” has a the border between the East and University summer games were On Monday we have the Rag As a footnote I might add double meaning. Many will have West zones we met with much held. Other sporting activities Week debate, in which four film that the friendships do not end some advance knowledge, and suspicion from the large num­ included international football producers—including Box and with the Seminar: last week I all will know (it is hoped) the bers of military and police who matches in which the famous Cox—will be debating “That he met one of the German students, difference between the sharp were trying to stop Germans Moscow Dynamos took part. is a fool who cannot play the quite by chance at the Theatre end of the boat and the alterna­ going to the Festival. However, For students an interesting fool.” On the previous Satur­ Royal, and a day or two later I tive. But many will enter a we were treated courteously feature of the Festival was the day there will be a debate on had a letter from another strange new world of bows and and no obstacles were put in holding of meetings meant to an election subject, when the German, so that we were able strokes, of stretchers and our way. Once across the zone provide an opportunity for speakers will include Arthur to have a miniature reunion in runners—and of boatmen! They border, although we had no students of a particular subject Blenkinsop, prospective M.P. for Durham at the weekend. will learn what bowside men visas for East Germany nor Wallsend and Parliamentary to meet their fellows of different BRYAN COLEBY. are called, and why! And they credentials of any kind, we nationalities. The Fure Science Secretary to the Ministry of will also find that it doesn’t were warmly welcomed and faculty meeting which we Health in the last Government, always pay to air that know­ transported rapidly to Berlin. attended was addressed by Prof. and Colin Gray,- prospective GERMAN STUDENT’S ledge. They will be instructed PROPAGANDA Harveman, of Humbolt Univer­ Independent Conservative M.P. in the lore about starters, and sity, and was devoted to the for Newcastle. On November IMPRESSION OF they will learn of the traditions The Berlin Festival was re­ subject “Scientists in the 6th we shall be holding our first KING’S o f the Boat Club. In short they garded by many people in this struggle for peace.” lunch-time debate between Dr. will enter upon that long and country and elsewhere as being Chalmers Burns, of the music A FTER four weeks of bucolic arduous training which will in merely a Communist stunt, a A WORTHWHILE VISIT department, and Professor W. F. V.A. Camp-life back for a time fit them for a place in a propaganda splash, or an few hours in a familiar atmos­ We regard our visit to Berlin Cassie, of the Country Dance Senate Crew. attempted political perversion Society, on the motion that phere. If I say “back” I mean it So here’s to the Senate Crews of youth. It is true that many of as having been worth while since, as well as being enjoy­ “This House prefers to be at the because I felt at home. During of the future, not forgetting the those who went to the Festival dancing end of the music.” my two hours’ stay at Durham near future in our wishes. were Communists, that it was able it increased our under­ standing of other peoples and D. HARNEY, I was shown around by Mr. organised and financed largely Convener of Debates. Bryan Coleby, together with a by the East German Govern­ taught us that although there frienilly chap of Durham Uni­ K.C. AFRICAN SOCIETY ment, and that one couldn’t be may be certain aspects of life in versity and it was quite natural other countries we do not like Programme up to early in Berlin for long without hear­ THE SEESHAUPT that we first went to see the November ing political propaganda. But it or parts of their outlook with SEMINAR Cathedral being, as it seemed to is not their propaganda which which we do not agree, there is me, the essential centre of all Friday, Oct. 19th— dominated the festival nor plenty of common ground be­ "TkURING the summer vaca- 5.30 pm.: Freshers’ Tea. tween us on which friendship the College buildings huddled 7.30 p.m.: Freshers’ Hop. which remains in the memory. tion I was one of the three around it. Walking through the Tuesday, Oct. 23rd— and peace can be built. As long It is the desire on the part of all British participants at an Inter­ aisles of that prodigy of ancient 5.30 p.m.: General Meeting. as we remain behind barriers of Tuesday, Nov. 6th— participants to create individual national Student Seminar which architecture I felt sure that friendships which would over­ ignorance and hostility, war will was held at Seeshaupt on the 5.30 p.m.: "The African and H.is be possible. When people come none of the students living in Religion’’—a joint meeting with come international barriers and Starnbergersee, a place about the very shadow of the Cathe­ religious societies at College. together in a genuine attempt to thirty miles south of Munich. opposing foreign policies. dral could possibly evade the THE AFRICAN SOCIETY IS understand each other the cause Present at the Seminar were SELLING THIS EDITION FESTIVAL GAIETY of peace is strengthened. For fluidum that emanates from it. about sixty students represent­ I was reasured in that when I We were able to have an ex­ this reason it is to be hoped that ing all of the Western European there will be in future, more watched groups of students MEN’S HOCKEY cellent holiday in Berlin and we countries (except Spain and walking in their black robes to must pay tribute to our East opportunities for the youth of Portugal) and including six 2nd X I v. Morpeth (H) the World to meet as they did at their different colleges, but German hosts. German organis­ American students. The purpose maybe this impression of quiet October 6th— Lost 0—4 the Berlin Festival. of the Seminar was to discuss ing ability is famous and we intentness that seemed to hang Rarely has the second eleven certain selected problems deal­ about them was for a greater played so lamentably as it did in ing with student life, e.g. part due to the fact that I was the match against Morpeth. The student self-governments, the whole team hadn’t the faintest social and political respon­ quite unfamiliar with the sight idea what to do with the ball or of students bearing black robes. with themselves. Time and again sibilities of students. I feel, however, this custom the Morpeth wingers caught the In an international gathering should be maintained at all King's defence wandering about of this kind it was impossible to aimlessly in mid-field. Twice they costs because it will largely broke clean through and galloped avoid the establishment of rival contribute to a certain family- in to score virtually unmolested. power blocks. There seemed to feeling so -essential for a suc­ The experiment of playing a be two main groups: the one cessful time in College. centre-forward as centre-half was headed by Britain and France, not all that it might have been, Facilities as regards accom­ and, combined with some very and the other led by the modation and equipment are weak forward play, accounted for German students from the very good and I think students the poor game. Free University in Berlin. This What is needed is more prac­ Berlin group professed them­ will appreciate this, at least tice— much more of it, with the they will appreciate their very second eleven playing as a unit, selves to be democratic, but nice houses which seem to possibly against the first eleven, they were extremely anti-Com- invite for laziness and frequent if that could be arranged. With munist, and confessed them­ the obvious talent. that there is, selves to be quite unable to little parties. Students in Ger­ a really powerful team could be many are mostly very badly off produced in time, but that must understand the point of view of depend on the officials of the club the British N.U.S. as expressed in that (I mean their homes, not the laziness). and their policy. by Jim Driscoll, the Deputy M.C. President o f the N.U.S., who was The afternoon I spent in New­ present at Seeshaupt. It seems castle visiting King's. A fine that anything which is anti- dinner in the Union with enter­ THE SPORTS CENTRE Communist will pass for demo­ tainment by vigorous and OF THE NORTH cracy, e.g. they believe that any always-scoffing Norman Nichol­ professor who holds left-wing son (take it for a compliment, views should be dismissed his Norman!). King’s forms a heavy chair even although his political contrast to Durham and seems STAN opinions are not influencing his to be strongly tinged by the teaching of his subject; they great technical and science de­ partments of which I saw the SEYMOUR refuse to have any contact with (NEWCASTLE LTD.) the Eastern European countries Chemical Department. I must at all, and were quite puzzled admit I was carried away in ad­ 1 Market Street, NEWCASTLE by the N.U.S. policy of tolera­ miration for the excellent equip­ tion—a policy which is by no ment, where everything seems Phone 27732 means left-wing. The fact that to be provided for study and these views were not held by research work. At the end of the all of the German students afternoon intrusion into Ethel We specialise in seemed to me to indicate some William’s Hall. Comment hope for the survival of “ shmashing” ! ALL SPORTS democracy on Western Comparing Durham Univer­ Germany. sity with King’s College I must EQUIPMENT The organisers of the Seminar say I should find it a tall task including also arranged for talks by visit­ to choose between the two. To ing professors and other people end with I should like to ex­ FOOTBALL - RUGBY connected with education. They press my best thanks to my kind took us all into Munich on two hosts! BADMINTON - SQUASH occasions and we were able to JOSEF ROHRER, see the university and other President of Students' BOXING - ATHLETICS buildings of interest. On another Repr. Council, TABLE TENNIS, Etc. occasion we went on an all-day Munster University, THE SEMINAR LOCALE tour of the Bavarian Alps — a Germany. Your inspection Invited Published by the Editor, King’s Courier, King's College, Newcastle upon Tyne, and printed for him by The Northern Press Ltd., South Shields and Alnwick.