Between Two Oceans: Sketches of American Travel

Between Two Oceans is a travelogue written by Robert Louis Stevenson, published in 1892. The book chronicles Stevenson's journey across the United States, from New York to San Francisco. Along the way, he observes the American people and culture, and offers his insights on the country's social and political landscape.

Between Two Oceans: or, Sketches of American Travel

by Hadley Freeman

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	706 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	366 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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The Journey

Stevenson's journey begins in New York City, where he is struck by the city's energy and vitality. He then travels west by train, observing the changing landscape and the people he meets along the way. He visits Chicago, St. Louis, and Denver, before finally arriving in San Francisco.

Throughout his journey, Stevenson takes note of the American people. He is impressed by their friendliness and openness, but he is also critical of their materialism and their lack of interest in culture. He writes:

"The Americans are a wonderful people; but they are not cultured, and their culture will not come in a day. They are too busy making money, and they have not yet had time to learn how to spend it."

The American Landscape

In addition to his observations on the American people, Stevenson also pays close attention to the American landscape. He is amazed by the beauty and grandeur of the natural scenery, and he describes it in vivid detail.

Stevenson is particularly impressed by the Rocky Mountains. He writes:

"The Rocky Mountains are a sight to be seen. They are not so high as the Alps, but they are more wild and rugged. The peaks are sharp and jagged, and the valleys are deep and narrow. The scenery is awe-inspiring, and it is easy to understand why the Native Americans considered these mountains sacred."

The American Dream

Stevenson's journey also provides him with an opportunity to reflect on the American Dream. He is impressed by the country's economic opportunities, but he is also aware of the social and economic inequalities that exist.

Stevenson believes that the American Dream is a noble one, but he also believes that it is not easily achieved. He writes:

"The American Dream is a dream of opportunity. It is a dream of a better life for oneself and one's children. But it is also a dream that is hard to achieve. The United States is a land of opportunity, but it is also a land of competition. In order to succeed, one must be willing to work hard and to take risks."

Between Two Oceans is a classic work of travel literature. It is a valuable source of information on the United States in the late 19th century, and it offers a unique perspective on the American people and culture.

Stevenson's writing is insightful and engaging, and his descriptions of the American landscape are truly breathtaking. Between Two Oceans is a book that should be read by anyone interested in American history, travel, or literature.

Further Reading

• Robert Louis Stevenson
• Between Two Oceans
• Between Two Oceans: Sketches of American Travel (Dover Thrift Editions)

### Additional Information

**:**

A portrait of Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of Between Two Oceans: Sketches of American Travel.

**Long Tail Title:**

Between Two Oceans: Sketches of American Travel by Robert Louis Stevenson - Journey, Landscape, and the American Dream

Between Two Oceans: or, Sketches of American Travel

by Hadley Freeman

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	706 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	366 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE