England of My Heart: Spring

A reflective travelogue written in the early 20th century. This literary work offers a rich exploration of the English countryside, emphasizing the beauty and variety of its landscapes, historic towns, and cultural heritage. Hutton evocatively conveys his deep affection for England's natural beauty, architecture, and the profound sense of history that pervades the land, creating an atmosphere that invites readers to appreciate England as a multidimensional character in itself. At the start of the journey described in the opening portion of the book, Hutton sets off from the Tabard Inn in Southwark, echoing the path of Chaucer's pilgrims from ''The Canterbury Tales.'' He captures his reflections on London as he departs, revealing a complex relationship with the city, which he simultaneously finds beautiful and indifferent. As he walks through the varied landscapes of Kent, he details the historical significance of the places he passes, such as Dartford and Rochester, while invoking memories of saints and historical events. The narrative is imbued with Hutton's lyrical observations about nature, architecture, and the essence of England, setting a poignant tone for his pilgrimage toward Canterbury.