I originally posted this in the Books thread, but it didn't appear to get the attention that I think it deserves, so putting it here and giving it its own thread.
"London's Fields" is a book by our own
Henry Hotspur
, which has recollections from a cross section of supporters of all the London clubs, including the subject of rivalries.
The "interviews" were recorded so they were captured as a chat between friends, rather than the participant giving a written account, so there was a very natural flow to each account.
It proves that football supporters are a hardy bunch, and that our feelings go so much deeper than just as a spectator of a sport. Every emotion under the sun is spoken about, and some great insights too.
The reports from Wimbledon, Brentford, Charlton and Orient supporters really made interesting reading - they have been through the mill in supporting their teams. You can't accuse them of being glory hunters. It would have been interesting to get the views of the interviewees on the proposals of the ESL, but unfortunately it was published before the proposals.
My favourite remark came from a Millwall supporter - 'many would say we lost the atmosphere of the old Den, but I don't buy that. It isn't about the concrete, it's about the people in it.' Lots more little gems where that came from.
I loved the personal accounts by the author, brought back some great memories, lost count of the times I found myself nodding my head and chuckling to myself remembering those times.
I also loved the lack of statistics and data that usually come with football books these days.
I'd strongly recommend getting this book, and not just because I'm in it! One that was difficult to put down once you start it.
"London's Fields" is a book by our own
Henry Hotspur
, which has recollections from a cross section of supporters of all the London clubs, including the subject of rivalries.The "interviews" were recorded so they were captured as a chat between friends, rather than the participant giving a written account, so there was a very natural flow to each account.
It proves that football supporters are a hardy bunch, and that our feelings go so much deeper than just as a spectator of a sport. Every emotion under the sun is spoken about, and some great insights too.
The reports from Wimbledon, Brentford, Charlton and Orient supporters really made interesting reading - they have been through the mill in supporting their teams. You can't accuse them of being glory hunters. It would have been interesting to get the views of the interviewees on the proposals of the ESL, but unfortunately it was published before the proposals.
My favourite remark came from a Millwall supporter - 'many would say we lost the atmosphere of the old Den, but I don't buy that. It isn't about the concrete, it's about the people in it.' Lots more little gems where that came from.
I loved the personal accounts by the author, brought back some great memories, lost count of the times I found myself nodding my head and chuckling to myself remembering those times.
I also loved the lack of statistics and data that usually come with football books these days.
I'd strongly recommend getting this book, and not just because I'm in it! One that was difficult to put down once you start it.
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