This book explores the formative role of mobilities in the production of
our close relationships, proposing that the tracks--both literal and
figurative-- we lay down in the process play a crucial role in
generating and sustaining intimacy. Working with diaries, journals and
literary texts from the mid- to late-twentieth century, the book pursues
this thesis through three phases of the lifecourse: courtship (broadly
defined), the middle years of long-term relationships and bereavement.
Building upon the author's recent research on automobility, the text's
case studies reveal the crucial role played by many different types of
transport--including walking--in defining our most enduring
relationships. Conceptually, the book draws upon the writings of the
philosopher, Henri Bergson, the anthropologist, Tim Ingold and the
geographer, David Seamon, engaging with topical debates in cultural and
emotional geography (especially work on landscape, memory and mourning),
mobilities studies and critical love studies.