In Pursuit of Spring

This book captures Edward Thomas's 1913 bicycle journey and his reflections on nature, serving as an elegy for a lost world in In Pursuit of Spring.

In mid to late March 1913, Edward Thomas embarked on a bicycle journey from Clapham to the Quantock Hills, capturing the essence of his surroundings. This adventure was later chronicled in his work, In Pursuit of Spring, published in 1914. This book is not only a reflection of his travels but also serves as a poignant elegy for a world that was rapidly changing, overshadowed by the impending Great War. The prose beautifully intertwines Thomas's observations with his deep appreciation for the landscape of Southern England.

What sets In Pursuit of Spring apart is its unique combination of text and imagery. Thomas, known for his poetic prowess, also brought along a camera to document his journey. The photographs he took, which have remained in archives for many years, are being published for the first time in this edition. Each image is accompanied by notes detailing the locations, providing readers with a richer understanding of the poet's experience and the beauty he encountered.

As Thomas cycled through Guildford, Winchester, and Salisbury, he reflected on the transition from winter to spring, capturing not just the physical landscape but also his emotional landscape. His thoughts and feelings during this significant period are woven throughout the narrative, making In Pursuit of Spring a remarkable blend of poetry, prose, and visual art that resonates with the reader on multiple levels.