A Philosophy of Walking

By walking, you escape from the very idea of identity, the temptation to be someone, to have a name and a history ... The freedom in walking lies in not being anyone; for the walking body has no history, it is just an eddy in the stream of immemorial life. In A Philosophy of Walking, acclaimed French philosopher Frédéric Gros takes readers on a profound journey through the simple act of walking. Rather than providing a narrative or a plot in the conventional sense, Gros delves into the philosophical and existential implications of walking, blending personal reflection with historical insight. The book explores different methods and motivations for walking, such as pilgrimage, promenade, protest march, and nature ramble, each revealing deeper truths about our humanity. As Gros traverses historical and fantastical landscapes, he contemplates the lives and habits of notable thinkers who incorporated walking into their intellectual pursuits. From Thoreau's serene isolation in Walden Woods and Rimbaud's furious escapades, to Nerval's walks to alleviate melancholy, Gros offers a vivid portrayal of how walking influenced their mental and emotional states. Rousseau used walking as a means to stimulate thought, whereas Nietzsche found the act of wandering the mountainsides vital to his writing process. Gros contrasts this with Kant, who adhered to a strict routine, walking the same path in his hometown at the same time each day to escape the compulsion of constant thought. Through rich prose and insightful commentary, A Philosophy of Walking challenges readers to reconsider the seemingly mundane act of putting one foot in front of the other. The book is a celebration of walking's simplicity and power, a call to embrace the freedom and clarity it brings. It illuminates how walking can be a form of meditation, a tool for political expression, and a conduit for creative thought. Whether you are an avid walker or contemplating starting, this book offers an entertaining and erudite manifesto for why the act of walking is more than mere movement—it is a journey towards understanding oneself and the world. Brilliant and thought-provoking, A Philosophy of Walking is a must-read for those who seek to enrich their lives through the meditative and enlightening practice of walking.