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Amours De Voyage   By: (1819-1861)

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Amours De Voyage by Arthur Hugh Clough is an exquisite piece of literature that beautifully captures the complexities of love, society, and human nature. Set in the midst of the European political turmoil of the mid-1800s, the novel follows the journey of a young Englishman named Claude as he embarks on a year-long academic trip to Italy.

Through a series of vivid and poetic letters addressed to his friend Eustace, Claude chronicles his encounters, observations, and reflections during his voyage. Clough's writing style is incredibly engaging, seamlessly merging poetry with prose and creating a unique form of epistolary novel. The letters serve not only as a means of communication but also as a diary of Claude's innermost thoughts and emotions.

As Claude immerses himself in the cultural and social experiences offered by Italy, he becomes entangled in a web of passionate relationships, navigating the complexities of love, desire, and morality. Clough perfectly captures the duality of love, portraying how it can bring immense joy and fulfillment while also leading to heartache and anguish. He explores themes of unrequited love, infidelity, and the intricacies of human relationships with great sensitivity and depth.

In addition to its exploration of love, Amours De Voyage presents a scathing critique of contemporary society and politics. Clough interweaves snippets of political events and discussions into the narrative, providing a nuanced analysis of the sociopolitical climate of the time. This adds another layer of complexity to the novel, elevating it beyond a mere love story and transforming it into a profound reflection on human existence.

The characters in Amours De Voyage are expertly portrayed with their flaws, desires, and vulnerabilities deeply explored. Each character feels three-dimensional and real, allowing readers to become fully invested in their stories. Claude, in particular, undergoes a profound transformation throughout the novel, grappling with his moral compass and questioning societal conventions. His introspective journey is both thought-provoking and relatable, making him a captivating protagonist.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is the meticulous attention to detail in the descriptions of various Italian cities and landscapes. Clough's ability to paint vivid imagery through his words transports the readers into the heart of Italy, immersing them in its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

With its lyrical prose, intricate exploration of love, and insightful social commentary, Amours De Voyage is an exceptional novel that captivates from beginning to end. Arthur Hugh Clough's brilliance as a writer shines throughout, and readers will find themselves deeply moved by its profound themes and unforgettable characters. It is a testament to the power of literature in providing a deeper understanding of the human experience and leaves a lasting impression on the reader's heart and mind.

First Page:

AMOURS DE VOYAGE

Arthur Hugh Clough

1903 Macmillan edition

Oh, you are sick of self love, Malvolio, And taste with a distempered appetite! Shakspeare

Il doutait de tout, meme de l'amour. French Novel

Solvitur ambulando. Solutio Sophismatum.

Flevit amores Non elaboratum ad pedem.

Horace

AMOURS DE VOYAGE.

Canto I.

Over the great windy waters, and over the clear crested summits, Unto the sun and the sky, and unto the perfecter earth, Come, let us go, to a land wherein gods of the old time wandered, Where every breath even now changes to ether divine. Come, let us go; though withal a voice whisper, 'The world that we live in, Whithersoever we turn, still is the same narrow crib; 'Tis but to prove limitation, and measure a cord, that we travel; Let who would 'scape and be free go to his chamber and think; 'Tis but to change idle fancies for memories wilfully falser; 'Tis but to go and have been.' Come, little bark! let us go.

I. Claude to Eustace.

Dear Eustatio, I write that you may write me an answer, Or at the least to put us again en rapport with each other. Rome disappoints me much, St Peter's, perhaps, in especial; Only the Arch of Titus and view from the Lateran please me: This, however, perhaps is the weather, which truly is horrid... Continue reading book >>




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