Status
Available
Call number
Collection
Publication
Evanston, Ill. : Marlboro Press/Northwestern ; Northwestern University Press, 1999.
Description
News from Tartary describes a phenomenally successful attempt that legendary adventurer, Peter Fleming made to travel overland from Peking to Kashmir. The journey took seven months and covered about 3,500 miles. With his companion, adventurer and writer, Ella Maillart, they set out across a China torn by civil war to journey through Xinjiang to British India. It had been eight years since anyone had crossed Xinjiang; in between those who had entered this inhospitable and politically volatile area - under the control of a warlord supported by Stalin''s Red Army - seldom left alive. Entering the
Media reviews
Central Asia is his stamping ground, with Peking as a starting point, with Sinkiang, Kashmir and all sorts of unspellable places en route. There is something of the troubled background of Chinese Turkistan, concretely and indirectly, something of the evasive situation in which neither China nor
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Russia quite comes to the fore. Rival correspondents, bent on the same game -- Peter Fleming and Ella Maillart (remember Turkistan Solo?) are virtually compelled to join forces, and shared the enormous difficulties and inconveniences and dangers (minimized as always by Fleming) of the seven months trek. Humor -- originality -- spirited story telling characterize this, but there isn't quite the sparkle of the earlier books. Show Less
User reviews
LibraryThing member nandadevi
Peter Fleming, in some ways 'a person of interest' to us as the brother of the much better known Ian Fleming (of Bond 007 fame if it is necessary to make that point), was back in those days just 'one of the gang'. That gang was, in the 1930's a pretty exclusive club, the wealthiest, best educated
Peter Fleming's description of this journey, accompanied somewhat improbably by a Swiss female journalist, doesn't 'spill the beans'. There's no secret pen-guns, and the closest thing to a car fitted with ejector seats is an old horse with a loose saddle. But he does hide his diaries and has an extraordinary confidence in bluffing his way out of tight corners, and seems to carry a lot of photographic gear. And his description of how he obtains a look at the photograph of the half brother of a local potentate (and thereby confirms the half-brother's enrolment in the Soviet Army) is pure Bond. No, the book maintains the cover story, just a journalist wandering into a vast 'forbidden area' without proper documents, for no particular reason - 'a bit of a lark', 'see what's there old bean', 'pick up a story or two..' British author (and 'not in the spy business either') John Le Carre caught the role perfectly in his novel The Honourable Schoolboy. Somewhere about two thirds through the book is Fleming's 'report' on the political situation in the region, presumably largely the same story that he filed with his newspaper. He wrote that Russia was winning the game in bringing a railway line close to the region, thereby gaining military and trade access. But he also notes that the local tribes weren't happy with either Russian - or Chinese - control. At the same time he observes the mountain passes into India were proof against invasion from the north. His assessment is probably as valid today as it was then, and putting it in print (or at least that version of the story) was perhaps the main purpose of the exercise; gee up a bit of public sentiment among the locals and the Chinese to resist the Russian expansion, calm the folks at home about the prospects of a successful Russian invasion of Afghanistan (!) and India, and let the Indian Nationalists understand that the Russians weren't coming to their aid any time soon. If Fleming had 'other business' in Central Asia he isn't saying. But you could observe that his description of the condition of the roads, the water supply, bridges and fords, and mountain passes is incredibly detailed and - supplemented by photographs - would make a pretty good guide for anyone planning to move an army (or to resist an army) through that country.
The writing style is perfect British understatement. He was an amateur adventurer, but I suspect that he might have chosen to appear more 'amateur' than he really was, or perhaps due to his honesty about his own abilities he comes across as less 'professional' than some who write about their successes and cover up their mistakes. The situations that he threw himself into, and got out of, would (I suspect) give the modern 'adventure writers' such as Newby and Theroux cause to run home to their mothers. After listening (in a metaphorical sense) to Newby complain that boats couldn't be purchased for his convenience at the 'drop of a hat' on the Ganges, or Theroux complain about being pestered by his fans while travelling I must say I have nothing but contempt for their efforts. Even the fictional Bond strikes me as somewhat inadequate, always driven to master the woman around him, although in effect he is the slave to his own compulsion. Contrast Peter Fleming's observations about his travelling companion Kini Maillart. No, give me Dervla Murphy (a 60 year old lady on a bicycle in the middle of Africa), or Kini Maillart, or Peter Fleming any day. Indeed, Peter Fleming is not just an engaging, amusing and interesting writer who is travelling through a fascinating time and place, but he is above all, the 'real deal'. Highly recommended.
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and best connected sons and daughters of an Empire that was about to plunge over the precipice into World War II. And oddly enough, for an Empire with vast military resources, and a history of using them without compunction (particularly against much less well equipped foes), a lot of the work of maintaining and extending its borders was done by projecting 'soft' power - the influence of trade agreements, playing contending forces off against each other, and slipping a little (or a lot of) cash into a pocket here and there. Britain had been playing a role in Central Asia (think of all the countries with the names ending in '-stan) between the Caspian Sea and Western China since the 1800's, bumping up against the Russian Empire (and later the Soviet Empire) along a thousand mile front. Known as the 'Great Game', the prize was not so much the colonisation of any of that territory by one power or the other, but the denial of it to the other. It was true, however, that India (and access to the indian Ocean) lay as a glittering jewel that the Russians from time to time dreamed of picking up. And it is true that Britain struggling to hold India against a rising tide of Nationalism couldn't afford not to take the Russian threats seriously. In this context Britain had a problem in the mid 1930's. They had lost track of (and influence over..) what was happening in Western China. In the days before satellites, and monitoring of radio traffic, they responded in the great tradition of British espionage, by sending a reporter from the Times Newspaper to have a bit of a 'look-see'. This is not to suggest that Peter Fleming was a spy and the inspiration for his brother's literary creation, well not entirely (in either case), in any case. But Peter Fleming's subsequent career working with Military Intelligence (and Deception) does, however, suggest a certain talent in that direction.Peter Fleming's description of this journey, accompanied somewhat improbably by a Swiss female journalist, doesn't 'spill the beans'. There's no secret pen-guns, and the closest thing to a car fitted with ejector seats is an old horse with a loose saddle. But he does hide his diaries and has an extraordinary confidence in bluffing his way out of tight corners, and seems to carry a lot of photographic gear. And his description of how he obtains a look at the photograph of the half brother of a local potentate (and thereby confirms the half-brother's enrolment in the Soviet Army) is pure Bond. No, the book maintains the cover story, just a journalist wandering into a vast 'forbidden area' without proper documents, for no particular reason - 'a bit of a lark', 'see what's there old bean', 'pick up a story or two..' British author (and 'not in the spy business either') John Le Carre caught the role perfectly in his novel The Honourable Schoolboy. Somewhere about two thirds through the book is Fleming's 'report' on the political situation in the region, presumably largely the same story that he filed with his newspaper. He wrote that Russia was winning the game in bringing a railway line close to the region, thereby gaining military and trade access. But he also notes that the local tribes weren't happy with either Russian - or Chinese - control. At the same time he observes the mountain passes into India were proof against invasion from the north. His assessment is probably as valid today as it was then, and putting it in print (or at least that version of the story) was perhaps the main purpose of the exercise; gee up a bit of public sentiment among the locals and the Chinese to resist the Russian expansion, calm the folks at home about the prospects of a successful Russian invasion of Afghanistan (!) and India, and let the Indian Nationalists understand that the Russians weren't coming to their aid any time soon. If Fleming had 'other business' in Central Asia he isn't saying. But you could observe that his description of the condition of the roads, the water supply, bridges and fords, and mountain passes is incredibly detailed and - supplemented by photographs - would make a pretty good guide for anyone planning to move an army (or to resist an army) through that country.
The writing style is perfect British understatement. He was an amateur adventurer, but I suspect that he might have chosen to appear more 'amateur' than he really was, or perhaps due to his honesty about his own abilities he comes across as less 'professional' than some who write about their successes and cover up their mistakes. The situations that he threw himself into, and got out of, would (I suspect) give the modern 'adventure writers' such as Newby and Theroux cause to run home to their mothers. After listening (in a metaphorical sense) to Newby complain that boats couldn't be purchased for his convenience at the 'drop of a hat' on the Ganges, or Theroux complain about being pestered by his fans while travelling I must say I have nothing but contempt for their efforts. Even the fictional Bond strikes me as somewhat inadequate, always driven to master the woman around him, although in effect he is the slave to his own compulsion. Contrast Peter Fleming's observations about his travelling companion Kini Maillart. No, give me Dervla Murphy (a 60 year old lady on a bicycle in the middle of Africa), or Kini Maillart, or Peter Fleming any day. Indeed, Peter Fleming is not just an engaging, amusing and interesting writer who is travelling through a fascinating time and place, but he is above all, the 'real deal'. Highly recommended.
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LibraryThing member moncur_d
intriguing, very 1930's travel book, that both gives insight into the politics and instability of the warlord period of Chinese history and the last stages of the great game as played out by Britain and the Soviet Union. Also gives a taste as travel as no lnger possible across wild and inhospitable
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places living on what supplies one could find, what animals one could shoot, and travelling by horse and camel in a way that would no longer be possible Show Less
LibraryThing member karatelpek
Interesting read. For the people of Xinjiang, it is quiet the what if: if the USSR made the region into an SSR in the 1930s, it might have ultimately become a free nation today. Sobering news for those reading the reports out of Kashgar these days. Fleming writes with a good sense of humor,
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although not much happens in their journey (bureaucracy was the greatest threat to their success). Worth a read if you are interested in Central Asia or China during the Civil War. Show Less
LibraryThing member FallsGalloway
"News From Tartary" is a remarkable travelogue that chronicles the extraordinary journey of author Peter Fleming, the older brother of James Bond" author Ian Fleming, through the remote and enigmatic regions of Central Asia. His captivating narrative takes readers on an epic adventure along the
Fleming's writing is infused with a sense of adventure and curiosity, drawing readers into his quest to explore the unknown. From the moment he embarks on his daring expedition, the book brims with excitement, anticipation, and the allure of the uncharted. His descriptive prose captures the rugged beauty of the Central Asian landscapes, transporting readers across vast deserts, towering mountain ranges, and bustling bazaars, evoking a sense of both wonder and wanderlust.
One of the book's strengths lies in Fleming's ability to convey the essence of the places he visits and the people he encounters along the way. He skillfully weaves historical context, cultural observations, and personal anecdotes, creating a multidimensional narrative that immerses readers in the intricacies of Central Asian societies. From engaging with nomadic tribes to experiencing local customs and traditions, Fleming's encounters offer insights into the region's rich cultural tapestry, providing a valuable window into a world that is often shrouded in mystery.
"News From Tartary" also shines a light on the historical significance of the Silk Road and its impact on the region. Fleming's exploration of ancient cities and archaeological sites adds depth to the narrative, offering glimpses into the historical layers that have shaped Central Asia. Through his observations, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural exchanges, trade routes, and geopolitical dynamics that once thrived along this renowned trade route.
While the book is a captivating account of Fleming's journey, it occasionally lacks a strong overarching structure. The narrative meanders at times, and some readers may find themselves longing for a more cohesive storyline or deeper exploration of certain themes. However, this loose structure also mirrors the unpredictable nature of travel itself, reinforcing the sense of spontaneity and discovery that permeates the book.
In conclusion, "News From Tartary" is an enthralling travelogue that embarks on a grand adventure through the heart of Central Asia. Fleming's vivid storytelling and evocative descriptions paint a vivid picture of a region steeped in history, culture, and untamed beauty. This book is recommended for travel enthusiasts, history aficionados, and those seeking an immersive literary journey along the fabled Silk Road. It serves as a testament to the enduring allure of exploration, the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of experiencing the unknown.
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ancient Silk Road, offering a rare glimpse into the landscapes, cultures, and people that inhabit this historically significant part of the world.Fleming's writing is infused with a sense of adventure and curiosity, drawing readers into his quest to explore the unknown. From the moment he embarks on his daring expedition, the book brims with excitement, anticipation, and the allure of the uncharted. His descriptive prose captures the rugged beauty of the Central Asian landscapes, transporting readers across vast deserts, towering mountain ranges, and bustling bazaars, evoking a sense of both wonder and wanderlust.
One of the book's strengths lies in Fleming's ability to convey the essence of the places he visits and the people he encounters along the way. He skillfully weaves historical context, cultural observations, and personal anecdotes, creating a multidimensional narrative that immerses readers in the intricacies of Central Asian societies. From engaging with nomadic tribes to experiencing local customs and traditions, Fleming's encounters offer insights into the region's rich cultural tapestry, providing a valuable window into a world that is often shrouded in mystery.
"News From Tartary" also shines a light on the historical significance of the Silk Road and its impact on the region. Fleming's exploration of ancient cities and archaeological sites adds depth to the narrative, offering glimpses into the historical layers that have shaped Central Asia. Through his observations, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural exchanges, trade routes, and geopolitical dynamics that once thrived along this renowned trade route.
While the book is a captivating account of Fleming's journey, it occasionally lacks a strong overarching structure. The narrative meanders at times, and some readers may find themselves longing for a more cohesive storyline or deeper exploration of certain themes. However, this loose structure also mirrors the unpredictable nature of travel itself, reinforcing the sense of spontaneity and discovery that permeates the book.
In conclusion, "News From Tartary" is an enthralling travelogue that embarks on a grand adventure through the heart of Central Asia. Fleming's vivid storytelling and evocative descriptions paint a vivid picture of a region steeped in history, culture, and untamed beauty. This book is recommended for travel enthusiasts, history aficionados, and those seeking an immersive literary journey along the fabled Silk Road. It serves as a testament to the enduring allure of exploration, the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of experiencing the unknown.
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Subjects
Awards
Language
Original publication date
1936
Physical description
384 p.; 21 cm
ISBN
0810160714 / 9780810160712