Walker: On Finding and Losing Yourself in the Modern City

The act of walking is a way of understanding who and where you are, from Charles Dicken's insomniac night rambles to wandering through the faceless, windswept monuments of the neoliberal city. Matthew Beaumont explores the relationship between the metropolis and its pedestrian life, asking can you get lost in a crowd, can you stare at people walking past on the street, and what differentiates the city of daylight and the nocturnal metropolis?

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2020
Publisher: Verso Books

The act of walking holds immense significance in our modern lives, transcending mere transportation from point A to B. It becomes a profound exploration of self, place, and the world around us. In his captivating book, Matthew Beaumont delves into the rich history of the walker, tracing the footsteps of iconic figures from Charles Dickens to Edgar Allen Poe, and from Virginia Woolf to Ray Bradbury. Through a series of thought-provoking intellectual rambles, Beaumont explores the intricate relationship between the metropolis and its pedestrian inhabitants. He raises thought-provoking questions such as, can we get lost in a crowd? Is it polite to stare at people walking past on the street? What distinguishes the city of daylight from the nocturnal metropolis? How does walking connect to philosophy and the big toe? Can we save the city—or ourselves—by taking to the pavement?

Walking offers a unique form of escape, allowing us to step away from the pressures and distractions of everyday life. It becomes a means of self-discovery, as we navigate through the labyrinthine streets and alleys of the city, observing the world from a different perspective. Moreover, walking serves as a catalyst for creativity, inspiring writers, artists, and thinkers to explore new ideas and perspectives.

In the modern city, where the pace of life is often frenetic, walking offers a respite from the chaos. It allows us to slow down, appreciate the surroundings, and connect with our inner selves. The city becomes a canvas for our thoughts and emotions, a place where we can reflect on our past, present, and future.

Furthermore, walking has political and social implications. It can be a form of resistance against oppressive systems, as seen in the protests and rallies that often take place on the streets. It can also be a means of promoting social change, as individuals come together to advocate for various causes and raise awareness about important issues.

In conclusion, the act of walking holds immense value in our lives. It is a means of escape, self-discovery, creativity, and social change. Whether we are wandering through the streets of a bustling metropolis or exploring the tranquility of nature, walking allows us to connect with our surroundings and with ourselves on a deeper level. As Beaumont suggests, we can save the city—or ourselves—by taking to the pavement and embracing the beauty and wonder of the world around us.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788738910