Stranger in a Strange Land: The Liverpool Lockdown So Far

Okay, I get it—there are no other subjects under discussion worldwide right now. It's the COVID-19 pandemic and nothing else. So I shall tell you what I think in an interview with myself.

Edo, are you following all the needed steps to avoid getting COVID-19?

I think so. I hope so.

Are you in fear of contracting this deadly virus?

Yes, but I'm in fear of a lot of things. Right now I'm worried about an ingrown toenail on my right foot.

Do you understand all the various symptoms and warning signs of COVID-19?

What?

Do you understand all the symptoms and warning signs of COVID-19—the coronavirus!

Maybe.

Have you tried to get a test?

Nope.

Do you think you need a test?

Nope.

Do you take your temperature every day to see if you are running a fever?

Nope. I broke my thermometer. But I have no fever. And I have masks.

Are you enjoying all the relaxing leisure time at home you have now?

Nope.

Have you done anything useful with the extra time at home?

Nope. Wait! I'm saving money by not eating out for one thing. Is that what you mean by useful?

Nope.

* * *

As you see, I have nothing much to say about this life-changing situation that involves all of us. You see that I have a box of Hong Kong virus masks that a friend here gave me—thanks, Ariel—and both the M&S Foodhall and Tesco Express near me are open and the shelves are full . . . or nearly full. I walk the empty streets for an hour most days and stay well away from others.

My pictures will show you what Liverpool City Centre has been like this last mount. Remember, in the '60s, the Beatles turned this port city into a busy UK tourist town, and the hotels fill up with visiting fans whenever there's a football match. Now the city is empty and almost all of the hotels are closed.