Rebecca Solnit’s Wanderlust: A History of Walking traverses the fascinating intersection of human evolution, societal development, and our intrinsic connection to walking. The book strides across time from ancient hominids to modern urban life, inviting readers to explore the cultural and philosophical dimensions of walking. Through Solnit’s engaging narrative, the act of walking is revealed as a complex, historical journey that has shaped humanity in myriad ways.

The Evolutionary Enigma of Walking

The question of whether Homo sapiens developed their large brains before mastering upright walking is indeed a captivating one. Solnit’s exploration cleverly links this evolutionary conversation to the broader cultural implications of bipedalism. By covering both the prehistoric and contemporary worlds, she effortlessly guides the reader from the ancient landscapes of early humans to the bustling streets of modern cities, highlighting walking as a fundamental human trait.

A Unique Historical Perspective

Though it might seem dubious to label it "the first general history of walking," Wanderlust stands out for its comprehensive and elegant take on the subject. Solnit, known for her works on landscape and public space, crafts a narrative that intertwines various dimensions of walking—a task so inherent to human life that we often overlook its significance. Rather than a straightforward history, the book is more of a meditative journey, with Solnit leading us through an introspective exploration that occasionally loops back to reveal new insights.

Metaphors in Motion

Solnit’s book is rich with metaphors that beautifully correlate walking with life’s journey. This narrative device underscores her belief that human existence is deeply intertwined with the concept of movement through space and time. By examining everyday language, Solnit enriches her historical narrative, transforming the book into a literary exploration that provokes thought and reflection.

Philosophers and the Paths They Tread

The narrative structure takes us from the Enlightenment era’s celebration of walking to its diminished role by the late 20th century. Philosophers like Henri Rousseau and Søren Kierkegaard illustrate how walking inspired intellectual development, connecting the physical act with the genesis of ideas. Solnit humorously delves into anthropological debates on locomotion’s evolution, ultimately suggesting that walking, much like vital human functions, links us to our biological limits.

Personal Pilgrimages

Solnit’s chapters often begin and end with personal anecdotes, such as her pilgrimage to the Santuario de Chimayó in New Mexico. By blending personal narratives with the broad history of pilgrimages—including the Peace Pilgrim’s journey and the Selma-to-Montgomery march—she illustrates walking as both a personal quest and a collective movement. Her insights reveal how walking has been used as a tool for protest and community building across different eras.

Memory and Movement

Exploring the connection between physical and mental spaces, Solnit delves into the concept of labyrinths and memory palaces. She discusses how memory is inherently linked to physical spaces, suggesting that remembering is akin to walking—both are acts that traverse an imagined landscape. This unique perspective invites readers to ponder the spatial dimensions of memory and cognition.

Wordsworth’s Lasting Influence

In the book, William Wordsworth emerges as a central figure, embodying the Romantic connection between walking and nature. Solnit examines how Wordsworth’s experiences, documented in works like “The Prelude,” shaped Romantic and later perspectives on landscape and personal freedom. This exploration ties historical walking practices to modern social and environmental movements, such as mountain climbing and the Sierra Club’s conservation efforts.

The Urban Landscape

While cities like New York and Rome offer rich experiences for walkers, Solnit argues that Paris provides the most profound urban walking experience. Through its boulevards and plazas, Paris becomes a vibrant setting for literary figures who found inspiration in its streets. Solnit...