The Rake

FROM THE HEART

In 600 B.C., when Greek settlers on the south-western coast of what we today call Italy founded a settlement in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, they called it Neapolis — the new city. It was to be new not just in location but in philosophy, a haven for those who were free of spirit and thought. It attracted minds such as the Roman poet Virgil, who asked to be buried there, and whose tomb, in the words of his contemporary Horace, “ennobled this elegant retreat, which attracted the lovers of repose and study from the noise, the smoke, and the laborious opulence of Rome”.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from The Rake

The Rake3 min read
Masters Of The Air
Grail seekers of a horological persuasion are rather more spoiled for choice than anyone doggedly holding out hope of unearthing from a Cornish allotment the chalice that once held our saviour’s blood. The Patek Philippe 2499 seen on the wrist of Joh
The Rake6 min read
Deus Ex Machina
Writing about cars for 25 years has enabled me to get behind the wheel of some decidedly exotic metal, from one of the first Bugatti Chirons ever built to the legendary Bentley Speed Six ‘Old Number One’ that twice took the chequered flag at Le Mans
The Rake4 min read
Gods Of Creation
Michael Browne has a particular sense of mission. His love of shape and precision has made him famous across the world. His training began in 2008 at Paul Smith Bespoke, and continued in 2010 with the masters of statuesque tailoring, Joe Morgan and R

Related Books & Audiobooks