World News for Students of English

10-08-2026 07:00

Pop icon Madonna gave Vogue an exclusive tour of her London home to share the story behind some of her most cherished personal possessions.

She started in her office by showing a self-portrait by Frida Kahlo. When she saw a postcard of the painting during her first minutes in New York inspired her to eventually buy it at an auction 11 years later. Madonna also highlighted special family mementos, including a wooden rosary that belonged to her late mother, post-it notes from her daughter, and a unique sculpture gifted by her son Rocco. In her living room, she revealed a second Frida Kahlo piece depicting birth, which deeply connects to her experience of growing up motherless.

Finally, in her bedroom, Madonna showed first-edition books, a blanket crocheted by her daughter during quarantine, and a plush octopus named Octavia – a meaningful gift from her sister that reminds her of a dedicated nurse who supported her through a serious hospital stay.

Difficult words: cherished (loved very much and protected because it is extremely special to you), memento (a small object that you keep to remember a person, place, or event), rosary (a string of small beads used by religious people while saying prayers).

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