July 2014: A Time of Gifts (Fermor)

Post date: Jul 27, 2014 8:46:54 PM

Six people attended the July 22nd meeting at Nancy's to discuss Patrick Fermor's A Time of Gifts. Everyone agreed the language and descriptions were wonderful though all had to constantly refer to a dictionary. When Fermor describes a visit to a cathedral it is like a painting. His inclusion of the history and impact of the buildings he sees and the locations through which he travels were extraordinary. The group agreed that the one thing lacking was any sense of personal transformation through travel.

There was speculation regarding making such a trip today…impossible…as well as the inability today of cutting oneself off from friends and family for any length of time because of technology.

There was discussion of other "travel" books such as that of Che Guevara, followed by a wide ranging discussion of a variety of topics.

Thanks to Nancy for both hosting, and for sending in this summary!