Tuesday, May 8, 2007

Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne

Yes, I read an antiquated book just for fun. I will admit that there were words every few pages whose meanings were unknown to me. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

The traveler, Phileas Fogg, wagers half of his fortune that he will be able to go around the world in eighty days. The year is 1875. That is not so easily accomplished. Along the way he and his servant, Passepartout, encounter many impediments and predicaments. There are also some very interesting methods of transportation used as well as a great deal of money spent.

The thing that impresses me most about this book is the character of Phileas Fogg. Through all the delays, and dangers, Fogg never betrays any emotion. He is extremely gifted in stress management or else he is cold and heartless. (But, several instances in the book will lead one to believe that he is a generous, kind-hearted man.) There were times when Passepartout was beside himself with distress over various problems that were slowing the travelers down. Through it all, Phileas Fogg shows no signs of frustration, even though it is his fortune at stake.

If I learned anything, it is that worry is not worth the time. I hope I can use a little of the calm, confident self-control that was displayed by this character, Phileas Fogg.

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