Unmitigated England: A Journey Through England's Soul

If you want to truly understand England beyond its factual aspects, Peter Ashley's 'Unmitigated England'' is a must-read. This book offers a deeply personal and evocative look into the heart of England, capturing its soul and spirit.

The Book and Its Author

First published in 2006 by Adelphi Publishers, Unmitigated England by Peter Ashley is more than just a history lesson. It is a passionate ode to a lost and found England.

The Title and Its Origin

The title 'Unmitigated England' comes from a line in John Betjeman's poem, 'Great Central Railway Sheffield Victoria to Banbury.' Betjeman, in turn, was quoting Henry James, who used the phrase to describe thatched roofs. Through Ashley's eyes, England remains pure and untainted.

Astounding Visuals and Personal Accounts

Ashley's book is a combination of black-and-white and color photographs, watercolors, and archival ephemera to paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. His journey through England is punctuated by personal anecdotes and insights, making it more than just a book about a place but a story of people.

Content Overview

The book is divided into several thematic chapters:

Preface by Candida Lycett Green – A tribute to John Betjeman’s contribution to English culture. Introduction – Setting the stage for what follows. Marmite on Our Hovis – Nostalgic looks at classic English brands. Songs of Praise – Ancient parish churches in England’s countryside. England on Film – Locations associated with popular English films. Guidebook England – A historical look at guidebooks about England. A Particular Kind of Pub – Traditional English pubs. Station to Station – Memories, sites, and people associated with train stations. The Open Road – Connections to road travel and motor vehicles. England by the Sea – A journey along the coastlines. Shopkeepers’ Shops – Shops and post offices from bygone days. Coloured Counties – A detailed look at some English counties. Essential England – Acknowledgements and an index.

The Visual Feast

The book is filled with many color photographs of churches, mills, lighthouses, railway stations, public houses, shop signs, and more. These images are a visual tribute to the traditional England of the past and how it is slowly vanishing.

Why 'Unmitigated England' Elicits Nostalgia

No book evokes more nostalgia than Unmitigated England. It is a pictorial and prose version of a John Betjeman poem, capturing the essence and charm of a more innocent England. The inclusion of Candida Lycett Green’s preface, written by a self-proclaimed child of John Betjeman, makes the book even more poignant.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a book that will transport you to the essence and soul of England, Unmitigated England by Peter Ashley is the perfect choice. It combines personal memoir, historical context, and a myriad of visual treasures to create a rich, visually compelling narrative. Any history of England would be incomplete without a mention of this remarkable book.