A Philosophy of Walking
Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.
Check link for latest rating. ( 5,899 ratings, 753 reviews)Read More
Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
A Philosophy of Walking
In A Philosophy of Walking, a bestseller in France, leading thinker Frederic Gros charts the many different ways we get from A to B.
"A long walk, Gros suggests, allows us to commune with the sublime." -New York Times
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! DescriptionA Philosophy of Walking by Frédéric Gros is a profound journey into the act of walking and its significance in our lives. This erudite and thought-provoking book delves into various aspects of walking, exploring it as more than just a means of transportation but as a powerful philosophical endeavour. Each step is a reflection, each path a narrative, as Gros blends his own musings with the rich tradition of thinkers who posited walking at the core of their philosophical and creative processes.
In this French bestseller, Gros categorises the myriad reasons and manners in which people walk, from the serene pilgrimage to the casual promenade, protest marches, and solitary nature rambles. His insights are a compelling reminder of how walking can free us from our identities, where the body in motion has no past or labels, just the freedom of existence in the present moment.
Gros sheds light on historical figures and philosophers for whom walking was an integral part of their lives and work. Thoreau's seclusion at Walden Woods, where his steps mirrored his quest for simplicity and introspection, is contrasted with the restless fury of Rimbaud, whose walks were a metaphor for his internal tumult. The poet Nerval found solace and a cure for his melancholy through the rhythmic cadence of his strolls, whereas Rousseau walked as a means to think deeply and systematically. Nietzsche, on the other hand, found inspiration and clarity wandering the mountains and valleys, his physical ascent mirroring his intellectual pursuits. Even Kant, who could not escape the compulsion to overthink, found a remedy in his regimented daily walks through Königsberg, a practice that balanced his inner doubts.
Gros also reflects on his own experiences, subtly connecting them with these intellectual titans, bringing in an autobiographical element that enriches the narrative. His prose is lyrical, yet precise, translating the simple act of walking into something with profound depth and multiple layers of meaning.
Brilliantly written and deeply insightful, A Philosophy of Walking is not merely a call to put one foot in front of the other but an invitation to rediscover the joy, freedom, and clarity that comes with this most fundamental form of movement. It is a manifesto that encourages us to step out of our routines, embrace the openness of the road, and find the paths that lead us to ourselves.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
A Philosophy of Walking by Frédéric Gros is praised for its passionate affirmation of simplicity and joy in walking, drawing insights from the lives of notable thinkers who found inspiration in this activity. Reviewers highlight its clear and elegant prose and its ability to inspire readers to appreciate walking as a meditative practice. The book is described as life-affirming, refreshing, and a profound examination of how walking fosters creativity, freedom, and mental peace.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781781688373
Publisher: Verso Books
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 07 April 2015
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Verso Books
Contributors:
- Translated by John Howe
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 15.0mm
Width: 140.0mm
Height: 210.0mm
Weight: 300g
Pages: 240
About the Author
Frederic Gros is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Paris XII and the Institute of Political Studies, Paris. He was the editor of the last lectures of Michel Foucault at the College de France. He has written books on psychiatry, law, and war. He lives in Paris.
Also by Frédéric Gros
View allMore from Philosophy & Psychology
View allWhy buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 10,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Pick Ups
We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.