In floods, Colette Sheridan braves the storm to bring Hamnet’s story to life

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by The Irish Times, click this post to read the original article.

On a rainy Sunday afternoon, you were torn between watching the film *Hamnet* or making broccoli soup. Though staying in seemed comforting thanks to the relentless rain, you had plans to meet your energetic 81-year-old friend AM before the movie. Despite several attempts to reach her by phone, you knew she’d rarely bail on an outing — even in poor weather. AM, with her spirited personality and unmatched energy, is someone who doesn’t let age or weather get in her way. She often travels long distances just to catch a matinee and is known for taking life head-on, even running for the bus faster than those years younger.

You’ve noticed how dramatically the culture around weather has changed from your youth in the 1960s and 70s, when forecasts were simpler and people less influenced by them. These days, color-coded weather alerts can dictate daily decisions. But despite pessimistic forecasts, you placed trust in a local weather app claiming rain would stop by 3:30 pm and decided to make the journey. Even though the rain persisted and your feet were soaked by the time you reached town, your commitment to meeting AM and seeing the film outweighed your discomfort.

Arriving damp and annoyed, you met AM at the pub. She, unfazed by the weather and clad in her trusty rubber coat, reminded you that it was far too early to start acting like old people afraid of a bit of rain. Her attitude emphasized that youthfulness doesn’t always align with age — it’s about determination and spirit. While many her age might have opted for warmth and comfort, she prioritizes experience and joy.

Ultimately, the outing proved worthwhile. The rain did stop — just as your weather app eventually predicted — and neither of you suffered the cold. Rather, the film left a lasting impression, with a poignant scene reflecting the very weather you had braved. Your experience, like the story on screen, served as a reminder that life is to be lived fully, rain or shine.