Loneliness in Ireland - Say, "Hello in there, hello"
Sylvia Thompson
Loneliness comes in many shapes and forms. One of many contributory factors is the lack of free public spaces in which to meet and greet each other. In an indictment of our lack of free public spaces, we commercialism our antidote to loneliness by herding people into cafés and restaurants.
To quote from the Irish Times article, "... some researchers claim putting the onus of solving loneliness on the individual misses the fact that environmental factors such as urban infrastructure, poor transport options and even housing design can contribute to feelings of loneliness.
Consider how public squares with fountains and arcades in many Italian cities allow people of all ages to congregate while also offering opportunities for chance encounters with friends and acquaintances. Granted, it’s invidious to compare the atmosphere of a sunny Italian piazza to the experience of being outdoors in weather-beaten Irish public spaces, but there is also a cultural reticence here to encouraging people to enjoy open spaces in Irish cities and towns apart from during organised events.
When my thoughts wander to loneliness, I am reminded of one of my favourite John Prine songs, 'Hello In There', from his eponymous 1971 album, 'John Prine'.
Prine says it best.
"So if you're walkin' down the street sometime
And spot some hollow, ancient eyes
Please don't just pass 'em by and stare
As if you didn't care
Say, "Hello in there, hello""
