The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns significantly impacted Irving's life, restricting his movements, influencing his work, and causing concern for his family's health and well-being. This period saw multiple restrictions and anxieties related to the virus and its impact on both the UK and the USA.
The COVID-19 pandemic began in late 2019, rapidly spreading globally. The UK and the USA implemented various measures to control the virus's spread, including lockdowns, travel restrictions, and mask mandates. Irving, residing in London, experienced these restrictions firsthand.
Irving's diary entries reveal a life significantly altered by the pandemic. In January 2021, he noted rising COVID-19 cases and the potential for further restrictions, stating, "It will be touch and go if I get out in time." He observed that more people in London were wearing face masks, with approximately fifty percent doing so. The diary also mentions "Tier 4 restrictions" preventing travel and contact. He expressed concern about the situation in Ukraine and the USA, noting sanctions related to the Hunter Biden investigation. He also had to navigate travel restrictions to the USA, requiring multiple COVID tests and a quarantine period. In 2022, reflecting on the previous year, he stated, "The old pandemic year has gone and I fancy not many in England or USA will be missing it." He also noted the impact on his work, mentioning a "6 month full-time contract job" obtained through a pandemic-response program.
The pandemic and lockdowns impacted Irving's personal and professional life. He expressed relief at the end of the pandemic year in 2022, noting improved income and stability. However, he also voiced ongoing concerns about his family's health, particularly regarding Tony. The pandemic also led to changes in his work, with Beatrice potentially taking over sales in Australia and New Zealand.
* "It will be touch and go if I get out in time." (diary_2021, 2021) * "I think there's another lockdown on the way." (diary_2021, 2021) * "The old pandemic year has gone and I fancy not many in England or USA will be missing it." (diary_2022_jan_jun, 2022) * "I am not missing the catheter either, which went a year ago in October." (diary_2022_jan_staugustine, 2022) * "It's been hectic but interesting and at times enjoyable." (diary_2021, 2021)
* diary_2019_jan_may * diary_2021 * diary_2022_jan_jun * diary_2022_jan_staugustine * diary_2017_may_oct