George Borrow in East Anglia

by William A. (William Alfred) Dutt

"George Borrow in East Anglia" by William A. Dutt is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the life of George Borrow, a prominent writer and linguist, highlighting his deep connection to East Anglia, where he was born and spent formative years. The narrative delves into Borrow's experiences, relationships with the local gipsy community, and his love for the English landscape, particularly the broads and marshlands of his homeland. The opening of the book sets the stage by reflecting on the nostalgic ties people have to their childhood homes, specifically focusing on East Anglia as a place of beauty and adventure. Dutt introduces the emotional landscape of East Anglia and its influences on Borrow, illustrating the author's initial encounters with nature and local cultures, including the gipsies he grew to admire. The text mixes biographical elements with broader themes of identity and belonging, capturing how Borrow's early experiences shaped not just his literary career but also his identity as a wanderer and observer of the world.