Ernest Young was a British author and travel writer known for his insightful explorations of Southeast Asia, particularly Siam (now Thailand). His works often blended personal observations with cultural analysis, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of the customs and traditions of the regions he visited. Young's notable publications include 'The Kingdom of the Yellow Robe,' which offers a detailed account of the domestic and religious rites of the Siamese people, and the 'Peeps at Many Lands' series, where he presented engaging sketches of Corsica and Siam. Through his writings, Young contributed to the Western understanding of Asian cultures during a time of increasing interest in the East. His literary significance lies in his ability to capture the essence of the places he wrote about, making them accessible to a Western audience. Young's works are characterized by a blend of travelogue and ethnography, reflecting both the beauty and complexity of the cultures he encountered. His legacy endures as a valuable resource for those interested in the cultural history of Southeast Asia and the evolution of travel literature in the early 20th century.
“You expected to be sad in the fall. Part of you died each year when the leaves fell from the trees and their branches were bare against the wind and the cold, wintery light. But you knew there would always be the spring, as you knew the river would flow again after it was frozen. When the cold rains kept on and killed the spring, it was as though a young person died for no reason.””
“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.””
“But Paris was a very old city and we were young and nothing was simple there, not even poverty, nor sudden money, nor the moonlight, nor right and wrong nor the breathing of someone who lay beside you in the moonlight.””