Tom Patterson

Maps and Socks Tom Patterson

Maps and Socks is an anthology of writings by authors who describe their experiences of walking at various times and in various places, without technical travel details. The weather is all-important to them. They discuss the reasons why they set off, where they went, and how they felt in the hills. They went by road, across plains, through forests, bee-lining across country (trespassing occasionally), on long-distance paths, over passes, and up into the hills. They may walk on into the night, and sleeping out may be an ecstatic experience or it may rain. They may walk too far and too fast, and then enjoy a rest. They may have a large pack hung with cooking utensils, or just take a sandwich in a side-pocket. Some prefer to walk alone and meditate or talk to themselves or the sheep; others enjoy walking in groups, and find that it encourages good talk. Alone or in groups it is natural to sing. When their walking days are over, they can relive past expeditions in diaries and maps alone or with old companions. Many walkers experience a sudden sense of something undefinable, occurring unexpectedly, usually short-lived, but bringing intense happiness and the feeling that all's right with the world. Their descriptions all tally, although they are hard-put to explain it. It is a theme that runs through this anthology.