Unusually, I did not record anything in my travelogue for this day – 29th May, 1973. The next entry in my diary was written on 1st June, but does make reference to what happened on 30th and 31st May.
So, I’m at a bit of a loss as to what to write about today. The day that did not exist. I know I spent the day in Athens. I can only imagine that I pootled around, stopping at tavernas, drinking Coca Cola, and I probably had an omelette. There are many references to omelettes in my travelogue. Which provides a nice segue into a bit of chicken and egg trivia.
It used to be thought that the city derived its name from Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom (not to be confused with the iconic poster store of the 1970s). However, it is now generally accepted that the goddess was named after the city. Athena and Poseidon (god of the seas) competed to win patronage of the city. Athena won by presenting a domesticated olive tree. Some versions of the myth credited Poseidon with offering a fountain, and others said he offered a horse. Either way, he was told to trot on.
Tomorrow I will leave this city. You will find me in the capital of the Peloponnese.
Psychologist on the Move 