Interestingly - and this is an adverb I've somehow become glued to, I use it freely in business e-mails and other places where I've run out of creative steam - this is the first Bonfire Night I've experienced in London in some time. Typically (another adverb, I can't throw overboard), I'm usually out of the UK on a trip.

So it's been a fascinating night; the sky's been flickering luridly with each percussive wave of non stop firework salvos, and the streets, particularly around Kensington Church Street, are thick with the smell of gun powder. Still and clear makes a perfect night for fireworks.

I'm pressing the pause button on posts for the next two weeks. I'm taking my near customary November break. Normal service resumes the end of the month.