Description

A stranger's eye reveals what the familiar often hides. In "Letters From A Citizen Of The World To His Friends In The East," Oliver Goldsmith offers a witty, sharp, and moving collection of 18th-century travel letters that illuminate the quirks and contradictions of European society. Presented as correspondence from a Chinese traveller, these classic essays blend epistolary literature with rich cultural observations, inviting readers to see 18th-century Europe through an outsider's gaze. The result is a vital bridge between East and West, where humour and insight spark fresh understanding. Goldsmith's letters-admired by literary scholars and cherished by history enthusiasts-capture the pulse of a changing world. Each page reveals nuanced social commentary, from the follies of fashion to the deeper questions of human nature. The influence of Jonathan Swift and the company of Samuel Johnson's contemporaries echo in Goldsmith's prose, yet his voice remains distinct: curious, compassionate, and slyly subversive. This is more than a classic essays collection; it is a masterclass in global perspectives and the art of observation. Republished by Alpha Editions in a careful modern edition, this volume preserves the spirit of the original while making it effortless to enjoy today - a heritage title prepared for readers and collectors alike. Whether you are discovering Goldsmith for the first time or returning to a favourite, this edition stands as both a cultural treasure and a collector's item.