There are some people who etch a place in your soul. That impact in such a positive way that you can be in no doubt that your life has been enriched by their presence. This is surely true of the Most wonderful Steven Booth.
I was friends with Steven many years ago as a teenager in Hull. In the mid 1990s - in those magical teenage years - surrounded by such a creative group of friends who undoubtedly shaped so much of who I am now.
Hearing the awful news reconnected me to that powerful time and awoke memories that had long been quietened by the passage of time.
I’m frustrated that I can’t recall detail more clearly but I can clearly remember Steven’s beautiful family home. That sense of love, order and dignity that was contained within those walls. Never a place to mess about! I always had such a strong sense of respect for Steven’s family. His beautiful, elegant mum. His wonderful siblings - Sonia literally the most stunning girl I’d ever seen.
I have snippets of memories of time with Steven...Watching My Own Private Idaho and howling with laughter at German Hans singing into the lamp in his hotel room; listening to The Pharcyde, at a time (As Robin’s fantastic recordings reminded me) when your mama jokes were the thing! And the many underage (for me at least) nights out in Spiders and the Welly. Nights of dancing topped only by the long early morning walks home - sometimes punctuated by a stop at the warehouses to see Dan L’s work...Whilst the exact details are frustratingly hazy, I can acutely feel Steven’s joyful spirit & energy; his incredible laugh and warmth. Looking at that old photo I can almost smell him. And how I wish I could hug him now and tell him how much I love him and how proud I am of all he is.
He was a wonderful friend and as many have said, over these past days, he offered so much so effortlessly. Reflecting now I also think about his incredible sense of integrity and authenticity. Some who knew him more recently spoke of his fearless creativity. What an awesome attribute. And to have offered that sense of support and encouragement to so many people in their own creative endeavours is some legacy indeed.
I am so grateful to have known this incredible soul and am so profoundly sorry that he is no longer here.
I have spoken to my eldest two children about Steven at length so that they too will have a sense of this incredible man, who was so important to their mum. Your memory will be kept well and truly alive dear Steven.
Rest in peace old friend.
Beautiful Toria