Riding with Rilke : reflections on motorcycles and books / Ted Bishop

Motorcycles and books? The very title gives one pause. Not a motorcycle enthusiast, this reviewer was nonetheless quickly drawn into the story of this talented writer and the romanticism of embarking on a journey on the open road. The story centers on Bishop's (Univ. of Alberta) sabbatical to do research at the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas at Austin, the "improbable location of the best archive in the world of British modernist writers." He received a travel grant, but there were no stipulations on the method of travel, and Bishop soon decided on "trading in his tweed for leather" and riding there. Plotting a route following small roads, he stayed or ate in mom-and-pop motels and restaurants in small towns along the way. Whether discussing Virginia Woolf or Ducatis, Bishop easily blends his love of books and archives with his love of motorcycles and riding, deftly moving from one topic to the other. His writing often takes a humorous tone, especially when he describes his efforts to present himself as a biker or people's reactions to his appearance. Readers are also treated to his insights into the landscape and culture of the United States and how they differ from those of his native Canada. This is an unusual combination of literature and travelogue but one that ultimately works and is an enjoyable read.