If you get the opportunity I would encourage you to take the time to read John Steinbeck's last book, "Travels with Charley: In Search of America"
September of 1960 John Steinbeck, already a successful author, set out to rediscover an America that he worried he had lost touch with. According to Steinbeck’s son, the real reason for his journey was that he knew he was dying and he wanted to see the country one last time.
Actually, Steinbeck set out on a giant cross country journey from New York, up to Maine, across to the west coast, down to California then across the southern half of the states back east, before venturing back up the East Coast. Essentially completing a massive circular journey through America. Yes, he had his French poodle Charley in tow throughout his journey through a “New America” that was on the cusp of some great upheaval.
Steinbeck was 58 when he set out on this journey alone (well, with a dog), which just goes to show that isn’t just for young, aimless, 20-somethings.
Today, more than 50 years after his death, in my opinion he remains one of America’s greatest writers and cultural figures.
Nana
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