This is an extremely memorable piece of writing, one that I will forever associate with the first few happy months that I had in AJ. I think it's my PC teacher's favourite piece as well, and she showed it to us during one of the first few introductory lit lectures. It's lengthy, but well worth reading.

"When you set out for Ithaca, ask that the journey be long, full of adventures, full of things to learn. The Laestrygonians and the Cyclopes, angry Poseldon - do not fear them. Such as these you will never find on your way, if you have elevated thoughts, if choice emotions touch your spirit and your flesh. The Laestrygonians and the Cyclopes and the fierce Poseldon you will not meet, unless you carry them in your heart, unless your heart sets them in your path.

Pray that your journey be long; that there may be many summer mornings when with what joy, what delight, you will enter harbours you have not seen before; and will stop at Phoenician trading-ports, acquire beautiful merchandise, mother-of-pearl and coral, sensuous perfumes of all kinds - as many sensuous perfumes as you can. Visit many Egyptian cities, to gather stores of knowledge from the learned.

Have Ithaca always in your mind. You destination is to arrive there; but do not hurry your journey in the least. Better that it may last for many years, that you cast anchor at that island when you are old, rich with all you have gained on the way, not expecting that Ithaca will give you wealth; Ithaca gave you that splendid journey. Without her you would not have set out. She has nothing more to offer.

And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you. You have acquired such wisdom, so much experience that you will have already realised what these Ithacas mean."

I love this passage because it's so meaningful and because of the nostalgia that's attatched to it. If anyone has any idea where this is taken from, please mail me to inform me, would like to read it in its entirety.