It’s hard to believe that in 2022, Trussonomics, Hancock in the jungle, Wagatha Christie and the Will Smith slap all took place. 2023 has been no less tumultuous, from royal revelations to the coronation, from government sackings to surprise comebacks.

But even in 2023, a few rays of light have made it through our sunny uplands. It was announced that tigers and blue whales have made a comeback. Elon Musk continues to keep making some very expensive mistakes for our entertainment. Penny Mordaunt held up a massive sword for ages. And Shane McGowan and Henry Kissinger both left us on the same day, allowing obituarists to celebrate the full majestic scope of human endeavour and endurance on a single page.

A few quotes from 2023

"I am very aware that the most successful role in my career has been when I am silent." Penny Mourdant reflects on her sword-carrying success at the coronation.

“Chronically indecisive, so I’ve adopted two surnames and the heptathlon.” The world champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson’s bio on the social media site which is no longer called, but is still known as, Twitter.

"Like giving Humpty Dumpty to Beethoven." The Spice Girl Gerri Halliwell after she asked a writer she'd just met to have a look at her novel. She was talking to the Booker nominee, William Boyd.

The last word

"For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning."
Four Quartets, 1943
T.S. Eliot, Poet, Nobel Laureate 1948

When we return to school after the holidays with minds focused on lessons, homework, exams and daily life, we like to think of T.S. Eliot who taught at RGS, albeit for a short time. On the threshold of a new year, there is no single quote that will change one's life, but the sentiment may still be worth bearing in mind in this season of good intentions, fresh starts, inspiration and hope.

With our best wishes to you all for 2024!