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Something Understood

Religion & Ethics

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life, taking a spiritual theme and exploring it through music, prose and poetry

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Something Understood: Trains

Trains

BBC Radio 4 - Something Understood, Trains

'Trains are made for meditation' - Mark Tully celebrates the beauty of rail travel.

'Trains are made for meditation', John Betheman wrote in 1940. Mark Tully celebrates the beauty of rail travel with the Chaplain of St Pancras Station, Jonathan Barker.


'Trains are made for meditation', John Betjeman wrote, celebrating slow travel back in 1940. He was only one of many poets, writers and musicians who have found inspiration in rail travel. Hypnotised by the rhythm of the train, they find a freedom to think and to dream, inspired by the unfolding landscape outside. 

Mark Tully chooses the best train poetry and music and talks to the Chaplain of St Pancras Station, Jonathan Barker, about his work on the station. With music by Glenn Miller, Anton Dvorak, Villa Lobos and Baron Samedi. 


Producer: Elizabeth Burke
A Loftus production for BBC Radio 4

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