In Patagonia, by Bruce Chatwin
In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin isn't just a travel book - it's a literary earthquake that redefined the genre. When it hit bookshelves, it sent shockwaves through the world of travel writing, quickly becoming a modern classic. It's the 1970s, and Chatwin embarks on a six-month odyssey to the southern tip of South America. But forget your typical "day-by-day, saw-this-saw-that" travel diary. Instead, Chatwin serves up 97 bite-sized stories that capture the heart and soul of Patagonia.
You'll meet quirky characters, stumble upon bizarre situations, and feel the raw thrill of exploring one of the world's last frontiers. Chatwin's writing hits you like a gust of Patagonian wind – sharp, unexpected, and totally exhilarating. His snapshots of life are so vivid that some folks have wondered if he might have spiced things up a bit. But hey, that's part of the fun.
Chatwin's passion for wandering and his thirst for adventure leap off every page. He weaves in fascinating tidbits about the region's past, including some juicy stories about Butch Cassidy's time hiding out there. In Patagonia has rightfully earned its place as a cornerstone of travel literature. Its innovative style and vivid portrayal of Patagonia's landscapes and people have inspired generations of writers and travelers. For anyone interested in the art of travel writing or the allure of far-flung places, this book stands as an essential, timeless classic.
“I climbed a path and from the top looked up-stream towards Chile. I could see the river, glinting and sliding through the bone-white cliffs with strips of emerald cultivation either side. Away from the cliffs was the desert. There was no sound but the wind, whirring through thorns and whistling through dead grass, and no other sign of life but a hawk, and a black beetle easing over white stones.”
Interesting Facts & Links:
Bruce Chatwin (1940-1989) was an English journalist and novelist, known for his unique writing style. He worked for Sotheby's, studied archaeology, and traveled the world writing for the Sunday Times Magazine. We also enjoyed his book What Am I Doing Here.
Read "Home of the Unicorn", the New York Times 1978 review by Ted Morgan on In Patagonia.
Chatwin mentions some of the history of Butch Cassidy's time fleeing the law in Patagonia. Learn more about this historic outlaw from Biography.com.
We listed In Patagonia as one of our top recommendations for those who love travel literature. Click here to see what other top picks we included as some of the best in travel writing.
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