Not so sweet a shoppe...
Gone is the old cigar shop opposite from the Round Church in Cambridge. On its location sits Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe. The visual presentation is quaint with its nostalgic décor and wall-to-wall sugary delights. One could not help but feeling like a kid stepping into the world of Willy Wanka.
On a business trip from America, I felt obligated to take photos of this delightful place to share with my children at home. I snapped a photo of the old fashion iron stair case going down to the lower level. When I turned to take a photo of the front counter, I noticed a store personnel standing there. Not wanting to intrude on anyone's privacy, I asked if it was OK to take a photo of him. I was really more interested in the store than his person. Much to my surprise, he said "No."
Oh, I thought innocently, he doesn't want to be in the picture.
Then the man added, it was rather rude of you to take pictures without asking.
This statement was puzzling. Hadn't I just asked?
And I told you no, the man responded.
Still not believe he was seriously offended, I tried to make a joke, Will you then get out of my picture?
He snapped back, Will you get out of my shoppe?
Really, no photos in the store? I said. When he confirmed, I apologized and walked out.
Upon returning to my hotel, I did a little web search and found loads of photos of this franchised sweet shop; perhaps none from this particular location.
There were no signs I'd noticed in the store that prohibit photos. I wondered what I did that was so objectionable I was kicked out of Ye Olde sweet shop. My friend swears it was the silly striped beanie. I shan't believe it.
Beware, gentle readers, point and click at your own risk! read more