REVIEW: WELCOME TO NEW LONDON
John Rogers has once again demonstrated his unique talent for capturing the ever-evolving essence of London in his latest literary offering, “Welcome to New London.”
A full decade has passed since the release of his debut book, and during this period, both the world and the city itself have undergone profound transformations. London, the enigmatic metropolis that served as the backdrop for his initial exploration, has continued to evolve at an astonishing pace, its relentless growth defying all expectations.
In the intervening years, John Rogers extended his creative reach and influence as an established YouTube sensation. His video chronicles of urban strolls became a steadfast companion to many, especially during the trying lockdown years when people sought solace and connection through virtual exploration. With “Welcome to New London,” Rogers has not only penned a compelling read but also seamlessly linked it to his digital journey. The book beautifully marks another milestone in Rogers’ ongoing odyssey through topographical and psychogeographical terrains, captivating the spirit of the modern urban flâneur — an urban shaman who traverses the liminal spaces of a city brimming with concealed secrets, apparent only to those with discerning eyes to perceive them.
“Welcome to New London” emerges as the quintessential companion for embarking on a similar expedition of discovery.
Through Rogers’ prose, you are beckoned to delve into the world of the “dérive,” a concept cherished by the Situationist International — a practice that involves drifting through urban landscapes in search of the unexpected and the extraordinary. Rogers’ skillful storytelling intertwines the historical, the contemporary, and the speculative, creating a vivid tapestry that immerses readers into the very heart of a city perpetually reinventing itself.
In this evocative work, Rogers offers readers an opportunity to become not just observers but active participants in the ongoing narrative of London’s transformation. His writing is not a mere chronicle; it’s an invitation to embark on an exploratory journey through the psychogeographical labyrinth of New London. As you immerse yourself in the pages of this book, you’ll soon hear the city’s call, compelling you to join the ranks of urban adventurers and discover, like Rogers, the hidden treasures concealed in plain sight amidst the ever-shifting landscape of London.
