TIME CAPSULE: Child of Wander

While delving into the earliest records of our lineage, I was not surprised to discover that we had always been identified as a matriarchal clan, the women of our family deeply embedded as glittering figures on an intricate tapestry

Provenance, a chronology of the past, an explanation for all that was and how it came to be. While delving into the earliest records of our lineage, I was not surprised to discover that we had always been identified as a matriarchal clan, the women of our family deeply embedded as glittering figures on an intricate tapestry. Our men were elegant consorts, staunch figures in the military, diplomats, respected literati, ministers and scientists. But the women had long held a fascination in Burmese society, animated hostesses with their motley crews of guests, bringing people together from all the edges of the world. Foreign correspondents, batty uncles visiting from (a colourful Indian snack) passed around after a meticulously served meal, the enjoyment of the evening only punctuated by the sounds of the incoming monsoon. Before she left us a year ago, my grandmother herself was well known in her circles for throwing the most intimate of gatherings, thought precious for the company kept and the graciousness of their hostess.