Flâneur

Book excerpt: "An inspiring book for fl�neurs and Paris lovers. It transforms your walk around Paris into an exciting and memorable experience." A man walks the streets of Paris, alone and without a destination. He travels long avenues of great buildings, loses himself in the crowds at the Grands Magasins. Wrapped up in a black overcoat, he wanders the city restlessly. But what is he looking for? Where is he going? This book teaches you how lose yourself in the city: it contains stories of promenades and urban adventures, stories of dandies and fl�neurs... It contains information regarding characters, authors and artists who have wandered the streets of Paris. By reading these pages you will discover the secrets of fl�nerie, the noble art of wandering without a destination. About the Author. Federico Castigliano holds a PhD in Comparative Literature (University of Turin) and is Associate Professor of Italian Studies. Having worked for several years in France, he currently teaches at Beijing International Studies University. His writing combines nonfiction and fiction and centers on the relationship between the individual and urban spaces, thus exploring the possibilities of today's city. Website: federicocastigliano.com TABLE OF CONTENTS: Itineraries of fl�nerie (map) Instructions for reading this book Prologue - Into the street How to be a true fl�neur A day in the life of a fl�neur Once there was the fl�neur Getting lost Where to wander in Paris Drifting along the boulevards The ruins of Paris A dangerous game The city of tomorrow Shopping as one of the fine arts Paris spleen Epilogue - At the gate Memorandum for fl�neurs Bibliography