In ’Rambles Beyond Railways; or, Notes in Cornwall taken A-foot, ’ Wilkie Collins employs an engaging blend of travel writing and personal narrative to invite readers on a meandering exploration of Cornwall’s picturesque landscapes. Written in the mid-19th century, this work emerges during a period of burgeoning interest in nature and the local geography appealed to by Romantic writers. Collins’s vivid descriptions and keen observations reflect not just the scenery but also the socio-cultural context of Cornish life, offering insights that transcend mere travel documentation. His witty and conversational style makes the journey inviting, transforming the typical guidebook into a literary adventure that challenges the constraints of industrial progress as symbolized by railways. Wilkie Collins, a contemporary of Charles Dickens and a pivotal figure in Victorian literature, was profoundly influenced by his experiences as a walker and his love for nature. His background in legal work and his friendship with prominent writers of his time nurtured his keen observational skills and narrative voice. This work can be seen as an extension of his literary pursuits, reflecting on the intersection between humanity and nature, as well as offering a critique of the industrialization permeating society. ’Rambles Beyond Railways’ is a recommended read for any lover of literature and travel, providing an intimate glimpse into the landscapes that inspired Collins. Readers who relish not only picturesque depictions of countryside but also nuanced social commentary will find themselves enthralled. This book invites you to tread the trails of Cornwall and experience its charm through Collins’s perceptive lens.
Om författaren
Wilkie Collins, born William Wilkie Collins on January 8, 1824, was an English novelist, playwright, and short story writer. He gained fame as one of the pioneers of the detective and mystery genres. Collins grew up in a literary environment, with his father being the landscape artist William Collins. After studying law, he forayed into writing, where he achieved immense success. His narrative skills and knack for suspense made him one of the leading authors of the Victorian era. Collins often addressed social issues of his time through his works. Notably, he wrote ’The Woman in White’ (1859), which became one of the first and most beloved mystery novels, and ’The Moonstone’ (1868), which many consider to be the first true English detective novel. His works were characteristically marked by a sense of realism and insightful characterisation. Collins was also a close friend of Charles Dickens and collaborated with him on several literary projects. Another significant work, ’Rambles Beyond Railways; or, Notes in Cornwall taken A-foot’ (1851), marks Collins’s unique blend of travel writing and literature. This piece reflects his keen observation and descriptive prowess, offering readers a glimpse into the picturesque landscapes and societal aspects of Cornwall in the mid-19th century. His literary style was marked by a combination of suspense, emotion, and a critical look at the societal norms of his time, often exploring the legal and personal position of women in society, making him a significant social commentator through his narratives. Collins passed away on September 23, 1889, but his work continues to be celebrated for its innovation and contribution to the development of English literature.