As the Crow Flies: From Corsica to Charing Cross

"As the Crow Flies: From Corsica to Charing Cross" by Walter Phelps Dodge is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The book captures the author's experiences and reflections as he journeys through various picturesque locales, including Corsica, the Riviera, and various destinations in England, presenting a blend of humor and keen observation. Dodge appears eager to share his personal impressions of these places, their cultures, and their people, framing his adventures against the backdrop of late Victorian travel. At the start of the narrative, the author recounts his somewhat tumultuous journey from Nice to Bastia, Corsica, highlighting the discomforts of travel by sea and the unsatisfactory accommodations upon arrival. Despite the unappealing food and dreary hotel conditions, Dodge is drawn to the local atmosphere, detailing his observations about the town's architecture, its historical ties to Napoleon, and the peculiar customs of the Corsican people, particularly the longstanding tradition of vendetta. His reflections reveal a blend of appreciation for the beauty of the landscape and a critical eye toward the quaint yet rugged lifestyle of Corsica, setting the stage for further exploration in the chapters to come.