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7. Rain

Why does British rain fall on British people? Alexandra Harris tells the story of the weather’s role in our cultural life.

Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. Why does British rain fall on British people?

Imagine a history told in rain. From King Offa's Mercia, to Saint Swithin, Milton and Dr Johnson.

How do they feel? Do they go indoors? Does the rain they see an ill omen or a blessing?

It never rains in the same way twice, and even in the same shower, no two people see it in the same way.

The shipping forecast takes us on a ritual tour of rain as it falls in darkness on the sea. Images form of places we have probably never been. Listening, we think of others listening. Rain, then showers. Moderate, occasionally poor.

Music by Jon Nicholls.

Producer: Tim Dee

First broadcast on ±«Óãtv Radio 4 in 2016.

Available now

14 minutes

Last on

Tue 4 Jun 2024 09:30

Broadcasts

  • Tue 17 May 2016 13:45
  • Sun 25 Oct 2020 00:15
  • Tue 4 Jun 2024 09:30

Weather animations

Watch a series of charming films about our historical relationship with the weather.