Clodagh Finn: Life feels like an Advent calendar as we mark time and ration treats

Waiting, counting, and living for treats sum up the reality of our lives since March 2020, writes Clodagh Finn

The realities of our new pandemic world have already begun to shape the countdown to Christmas. File image.

Wed, 01 Dec, 2021 - 07:30

Clodagh Finn is a journalist, writer and collector of stories. Her recent book, The Irish in the Resistance, co-authored with John Morgan, shines a light on the forgotten contributions of the Irish who resisted Hitler during WW2.

Is there a better metaphor for the way we are living our Covid-restricted lives than the Advent calendar? Indeed, at times, it seems like we are trapped in one; marking time and measuring out daily treats as we trudge onwards in the hope of better days.

What will be behind the perforated cardboard window today? Playdate or pantomime? Socially-distanced contact with a friend? Hairdressers or gym?