The need to escape lockdown even in paradise

sir – My grandfather was a German merchant navy captain, and the definition of an adventurer and free spirit. His response to the current situation would probably have been to sit in front of his house with a glass of port while making cynical remarks about the stupidity and softness of the human race.

When the Second World War began, he was drafted, like all young men at the time. His attraction to extremes led him to the most incredible experiences, and he was a neverending source of colourful stories. For example, when he was leading a flotilla of one-man (Biber) submarines, his vessel was shot by the British in the Norwegian sea, but he managed to escape and swim to shore, where he was revived by the locals with booze.

When the Covid-19 crisis began, one story in particular came to mind. At some point, my grandfather became a prisoner of war in France, and was held in a little village. Given his charm and gift for languages, the people adored him and he soon found a French girlfriend. But he grew bored and decided to run off, making his way through now Allied-occupied territory back to Bavaria – only to be denounced by a German border patrol officer and incarcerated by the Americans.

When I was younger, I never quite understood why he ran away from a completely safe and comfortable place and embarked on a seemingly hopeless endeavour.

Now, after six months of isolation in a picturesque and remote Scottish village, I understand his decision. Even if you are trapped in paradise, you are still trapped, and the grass will always be greener on the other side.

While (forced) domestication might bring joy to many people, a few of us value the idea of freedom more than a perceived feeling of safety.

Dr Mariana Hildebrand

Weizmann Institute of Science Rehovot, Israel

sir – I had a sad realisation yesterday: it has been a long time since I have been allowed to give or receive a hug.

In addition, it has been ages since I last shook the hand of a friend, colleague or stranger.

This is not good for the soul.

John Catchpole

Beverley, East Yorkshire