In an era dominated by digital connections and instant communication, Chris S. Witwer’s book “Rubbings” is a refreshing dive into a simpler time. The book chronicles Witwer’s six-week solo journey through Europe in 1997, a time when the idea of traveling without a smartphone or the internet was not just plausible but the only way to explore the world. This non-fiction account captures the essence of adventure and self-discovery, accompanied by the author’s unique narrative voice that makes readers feel as though they’re sitting across from a friend, listening to their stories on a lazy afternoon.
A Journey Through Time and Self
“Rubbings” starts as a travelogue but gradually morphs into something much deeper—a reflective exploration of a young woman’s coming of age. As Witwer recounts her travels from the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil rivieras of Italy, she does more than just describe the places she visits. She delves into the art, history, and cultural nuances that define each destination, bringing them to life with vivid detail and personal anecdotes. Each chapter offers readers a glimpse into the cities and sights that marked the European landscape before the millennium—a Westminster Abbey unshared on social media, a Louvre not yet overrun by selfie sticks, and a Mediterranean coast as timeless as any ancient myth.
What sets “Rubbings” apart is its introspective nature. As Witwer moves through different stages of her journey, her internal voyage unfolds as well. The narrative is filled with moments of solitude, unexpected friendships, and transient connections with strangers, each adding layers to her understanding of the world and herself. Through her eyes, we see a Europe that’s not just a collection of landmarks but a backdrop to personal transformation.
The Art of Storytelling and Living
Chris S. Witwer brings to “Rubbings,” a rich tapestry of experiences not only as a traveler but as a lifelong writer. Since her second grade declaration to become an author, through afternoons spent in cafes and writing classes, to overcoming health scare and dedicating herself to her craft, Witwer’s journey to authorship is as compelling as her physical travels. Her previous works, including the acclaimed “A Deafening Absence,” showcase her evolution as a writer, but “Rubbings” is perhaps her most personal work, blending travel memoir with deep narrative introspection.
Witwer’s daily routine during the creation of “Rubbings” involved early mornings filled with writing and coffee, a testament to her disciplined approach to storytelling. Supported by her wife, whom Witwer describes as her perfect partner in writing and life, she has managed to create a work that resonates with authenticity and heartfelt emotion. Her narrative invites readers to not only explore the physical world but also to reflect on their personal journeys and the uncharted territories within themselves.
A Timeless Tale for the Modern Traveler
For those yearning for an era of travel that predates digital dominance, “Rubbings” offers a nostalgic and insightful perspective. It serves as both a travel guide and a reminder of the value of disconnecting from our often chaotic digital lives to engage more deeply with the world around us. For aspiring travelers, writers, or anyone who cherishes deep personal reflection and adventurous spirit, Chris S. Witwer’s “Rubbings“ is a compelling invitation to explore, remember, and dream about the roads both traveled and waiting to be discovered.
As Witwer continues to inspire through her words and experiences, “Rubbings“ stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the transformative nature of travel. It is more than just a book; it is a journey that challenges, comforts, and enlightens, urging us all to see the world—and ourselves—with new eyes.
We had the pleasure of interviewing the author. Here are excerpts from the interview.
Hi, It’s great to have you with us today! Please share with our readers about yourself.
Hi, While I aspire to one day write a novel – after I figure out how – I have discovered that I really love writing short stories as well as stories inspired by certain periods of my past. My debut book was a collection of short shorts, and now I’ve just put out a book about my time in Europe with nothing but a backpack and a journal. In both books, I tell stories as if we are friends sitting on the porch enjoying a beverage together.
Please tell us about your book, Rubbings.
Rubbings is a non-fiction account of my 6 weeks trip to Europe in 1997, before there were cell phones and internet cafes. I spent that time completely alone except for brief encounters with strangers I met along the way. You can’t travel like that anymore. We’re too connected now, which benefits readers now actually. You can look up each place, each painting, each city I wrote about and see it for yourself. So essentially, you get to come with me all these years later.
Please share your journey with our readers.
I have wanted to write books since second grade. I told my family this, and they asked me to write under a pen name. Even back then, LOL, before I was openly lesbian. I wish I had a penny for every afternoon I spent writing in a cafe throughout my life, trying to figure out how to write that elusive novel. I took a short story class in 2018 after discovering an author I admired (Sara Houghteling) was teaching it nearby, and since then, I’ve learned to write stories I really love sharing. My first book, A Deafening Absence, captured some of those stories, including the one from the short story class. Then, after a health scare, I decided to really dedicate some time to my 1997 travel journal to see if there was anything in it worth sharing – and Rubbings was born. It starts off as a sort of travelogue and ends more introspective, with more storytelling as I experience a truly magical post-college trip. A coming-of-age story, in a way.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
Early mornings really helped. I would get up an hour or two before normal and just bust out as much work as I could while having my morning coffee. That and a few weekends, and I became adept at accomplishing things in a short time. Also, I have the perfect writer’s wife. She understands the work involved in writing and gives me as much time as I need. She’s also a fantastic cheerleader, editor, and marketer.
Any message for our readers?
Come with me! Come to Europe!
Thank you so much for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!