So thought Dick Whittington as the tale of yore goes. After deciding to leave London, he was dissuaded by the sound of Bow bells, which promised he would be mayor of London one day.
Turn again Whittington, Lord Mayor of London.
So the story goes. Inspiration of many a Panto. The stuff of myth and legend with little truth in reality. The propoganda of its day. According to Wikipaedia “Dick Whittington and His Cat is the English folklore surrounding the real-life Richard Whittington (c. 1354 – 1423), wealthy merchant and later Lord Mayor of London.” It’s a real rags to riches tale and the stuff legends are made of
What about the gold?
As often happens with stories of historic characters myths have arisen which have nothing to do with the real character. As time goes on these myths are embellished as we enjoy the romance of the tale.comments?
London is not short of visible wealth.
You only have to look at the architecture. Many buildings are painted with gold, and statues like the albert memorial above have been guilded.
But gold on the pavements?
I like to think the myth is somehow prophetic in this case.
What about Painted gold?
Well, maybe not actual gold but yellow road markings can give the appearance of gold if caught in the right light.
Could it be escaped Liquid gold?
The building is 20 Gracechurch Street originally built for Barclays bank. Maybe some of that gold has seeped up to form the roadmarkings. Fanciful notion perhaps but what are we in life if we have not a little whimsy!
Or maybe it's the Sunlight?
The golden rays from the light of the sun streaming onto the streets? That’s why 20 Gracechurch Street glows so brightly.
What do you think?
One of these or maybe you can suggest another gold in the comments?dd Your Heading Text Here
Paved with Gold is sold but you may like tp see my Gracechurch Street painting.