The Beach

I started reading The Beach on my ferry ride from Port Blair to Havelock Island. And during my time reading the book I came to realise that Richard and I were pretty much in the same boat.

There was group of us who met at the crazy ticketing stall.

- Or (The Commander)
- Amir & Ran the beautiful shaggy haired Israelis
- 1 very talkative Canadian – Mike
- Michael (I pity the girl who comes between he and his chillum)

We were a band of merry strangers all embarking on semi virginal islands with images of coconut tree lined beaches, clear waters and on all of our minds some kind of adventure. We camped out on the top of ferry and did the usual get to know you traveller shit.

I’m forgetting my book/trip link. Ah where is my mind? Anyway just at the chaper when Richard, Francoise and Etienne arrive at The Beach we arrived at Havelock. Wow I hear you say. Then a few days later we went snorkelling (or schnoorkelling as the Israelis say) and I was at the chaper when the Swedes get attacked by the shark. Wow again.

My time continued to parallel Richards – we both had the sand and the water that we dreamed of. Also the unrequited love. The soft scent of weed permeating the air. And I guess the boys calling to the chillum would be like the calls of native animals on their island.

Richard had Daffy to talk to though, whereas I had Raju the dog. Raju always sat next to me while I read on the beach. Often covering his paws with my hands so that I couldn’t read.

And then.. my book got eaten. Probably by Raju.