A Philosophy of Walking

A Philosophy of Walking, by Frédéric Gros, is a bestseller in France that explores the many different ways we get from A to B and what they say about us. It draws attention to other thinkers who saw walking as central to their practice, such as Thoreau, Rimbaud, Nerval, and Kant. It is an entertaining and insightful manifesto for putting one foot in front of the other.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2023
Publisher: Verso Books

Walking offers a unique escape from the concept of identity, the allure of becoming someone, and the desire to possess a name and a history. The freedom inherent in walking lies in the absence of a distinct identity; the walking body, devoid of a past, merely exists as a fleeting eddy in the endless stream of immemorial life.

In his captivating book, A Philosophy of Walking, renowned philosopher Frédéric Gros delves into the diverse modes of locomotion we employ to traverse from one point to another. From the pilgrimage to the promenade, from the protest march to the nature ramble, Gros explores the profound implications these forms of movement have on our selves. He also highlights the insights of other thinkers who regarded walking as a central aspect of their philosophical practices.

During his travels, Gros reflects on the solitude of Thoreau in Walden Woods, the fury of Rimbaud's walks, and the melancholic meanderings of Nerval. He reveals how Rousseau walked to contemplate, while Nietzsche wandered the mountainside to write. In contrast, Kant imposed a daily routine of marching through his hometown at the same hour, seeking to escape the clutches of thought.

A Philosophy of Walking is a brilliant and erudite manifesto, inviting readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. Through its pages, Gros encourages us to put one foot in front of the other, embracing the simple act of walking as a means of reconnecting with our innermost selves and the world around us.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804290446
Edition number: New ed