A decade has passed since the first English publication of this magnificent odyssey through the history, geography, natural history and cultural landscape of central Europe. It is a testament to one man's extraordinary learning and intellectual curiosity, and a moving tribute to the glories of a central European civilisation which, in many ways, has disappeared. Late in a narrative which is as beautiful and meditative as it is informative, Magris observes "the Danube flows broad, and the evening wind passes through the open-air cafes like the breath of an old Europe which may already be at the brink of the world and no longer produces history but only consumes it". By following a great river, Magris plots a route which marks the divides between Europe and the East. The complexities of culture and nationality are explored without dogma as Magris proves a most gracious, erudite, engaging and fair-minded companion on a journey no reader will forget. This is an inspired, moving fusion of history and travel writing as art. In the light of current events in the Balkans, Magris's masterpiece - originally published in Italian in 1986 - is now prophecy fulfilled.
Eileen Battersby