'Up the Country': Letters Written to Her Sister from the Upper Provinces of India

by Emily Eden

"Up the Country" by Hon. Emily Eden is a collection of letters written in the 19th century. The text details Emily Eden's travels as she narrates her experiences in the Upper Provinces of India, primarily directed to her sister. The letters combine personal reflections with vivid descriptions of the landscape, the cultural encounters, and the social circles of the British expatriates in India, capturing the nuances of both the grandeur and the discomfort associated with such travel. The opening of the work sets the stage for Eden's journey, beginning with her departure from Calcutta aboard a river steamer. She shares her feelings about leaving behind familiar comforts for what lies ahead, noting the vibrant yet chaotic scenes of her send-off. Through her keen observations, she paints a picture of the diverse cast of fellow travelers and the exotic Indian landscapes they traverse, including lush jungles and rural settlements. Furthermore, Eden's correspondence reveals her reflections on the changes India faces, particularly the impact of modern connectivity like railroads on traditional ways of life. Overall, the beginning of "Up the Country" offers readers an intriguing glimpse into a historical journey filled with personal musings and cultural encounters that would appeal to those interested in travel narratives and colonial-era experiences.