On returning

It’s been a week since the last night of Morrissey’s UK & Ireland tour. For three weeks I put most of my life on hold and lost myself to a world that I find difficult to describe, but one that I’m so very happy to have experienced.

Following a tour is of course ultimately dictated by the live shows. It is the pursuit of these shows that motivates us, determines our direction, provides dates and times at which we must be in certain places. The shows alone are reason enough for the travel and time devoted to it. Yet the experience of the tour is so much more than just the shows. It’s so many things.

Not least of these, is being reunited with old friends, and making new friends, from around the world, and the camaraderie created by the time we spend together, and our shared passion and joy. The hugs of excitement when we make the barrier, or when Lypsinka appears. Shared screams of delight at successful stage invasions. Witnessing the emotion of a new friend, when Morrissey signs his vinyl, right in front of me. Helping strangers jump over the barrier. Meeting people I’ve previously only known on social media.

Repeated nights of tactics, triumphs and disappointments.

Listening to the sound check through walls or doors

Faulty scanners.

Running faster than I realised I still could.

Evading security staff at seated venues.

Sharing a two pint cup of cider whilst waiting at the front, with a guy I’ve never met before.

Sitting on the floor amongst a forest of legs.

Leaning on the stage, less than two metres from the microphone stand.

Being lost in orange fog whilst my favourite song is played.

Hugs and handshakes with the man himself.

Cologne soaked pieces of shirt.

Knowing you get to do it all again in less than 48 hours.

Meeting the band at the airport.

Stress and anxiety. Butterflies that prevent me from eating before shows.

Midnight pizza.

Sleep deprivation.

 

Giving a terrible fan interview.

Stolen posters.

Arriving at the venue at 5.30am to find The List already full.

The terrible show photos, and surprisingly good ones.

 

Sightseeing in old and new locations.

 

 

These are the things that fill my head now when I think about the tour; a special, unique experience that I’ll always remember and value as one of the best of my life.

 

(all photos are mine unless otherwise stated)