Speaking at Princeton’s 250th anniversary convocation in October 1996, novelist and professor Toni Morrison began with a reference to William Wordsworth’s meditation on “the spirit of the place,” in The Prelude. Morrison thought there were two ways of thinking about Princeton: as a place of collective memory that is part of the nation’s history, and one of private memory.
We asked PAW’s talented student interns and contributors to write about their favorite places — the private memory — and many did. Some describe the soaring Gothic towers, though not for the reasons that enthrall architectural devotees. Others recall study corners, common rooms, even locker rooms. Each space speaks to the spirit of this place.
With Reunions approaching, we ask: What place speaks to the spirit of your Princeton? Add a comment below or write to us at paw@princeton.edu to let us know, and send a photo if you can.
Nikita Dutta GS, Tiger and Tigress, Adams Mall
Gabriel Fisher ’17, Atrium, Princeton University Art Museum
Jennifer Shyue ’17, Murray-Dodge Café
Emily Erdos ’19, Class of 1887 Boathouse
Nina Sheridan ’19, Public Table
Alexandra Markovich ’17, Track and Field Locker Room, Caldwell Field House
Matthew Silberman ’17, Common Room, Whitman College
Megan Laubach ’18, Science Fiction Library, Forbes College
Kevin Cheng ’17, Dante Room (East Pyne 111)
Mary Hui ’17, Cleveland Tower, Graduate College