Two happy years in Ceylon

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

78228

Title

Two happy years in Ceylon

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

C. F. Gordon Cumming's 'Two Happy Years in Ceylon' offers a vivid, authoritative account of the 'Isle of Flowers.' Praised by contemporary critics as a classical work on the island, this travelogue combines artistic illustration with naturalist observation. The narrative captures the lush landscapes, diverse flora, and rich cultural life of Ceylon, presenting a delightful and informative portrait of an earthly paradise.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'Two Happy Years in Ceylon,' C. F. Gordon Cumming presents a vivid and comprehensive travelogue of her residence on the island, which she affectionately describes as a period of 'all play and no work.' Serving as both a literary celebration and a practical guide, the book transports readers into the tropical splendor of Ceylon, often referred to as the 'Isle of Flowers.' Cumming, an artist and keen observer, details her journeys from the coastal plains to the high hills of Adam's Peak, capturing the island's geography, flora, fauna, and the diverse lives of its inhabitants. A significant portion of the narrative is dedicated to the island's rich botanical life, particularly the palm family. Cumming provides exhaustive descriptions of the cultivation of rice in swampy fields and the construction of terraces on mountainsides. She focuses extensively on the palmyra and cocoa palms, explaining their myriad uses for timber, food, sugar, and thatch. The text offers a poignant look at the dangerous and arduous work of the toddy-drawers, who climb these trees to harvest sap, often risking their lives on slippery ropes. The narrative extends to the island's unique wildlife, noting the presence of fish in hot springs and the fascinating habits of crabs on the beaches. Culturally, the book explores the lives of the Singhalese, Tamils, and Veddahs, their festivals, religions, and folklore. Cumming also highlights the efforts of the Church Missionary Society in Cotta, noting its schools and printing press, which played a crucial role in education and religious instruction. Throughout the text, the author conveys a pervasive sense of joy and brightness, aiming to immerse the reader in the island's beauty. The work is lauded for its accuracy, literary grace, and the author's ability to describe the island's occupations with a blend of feminine grace and masculine vigour. Praised by contemporary critics as a classical work on Ceylon, the book remains a standard reference for the island's history, people, and natural wonders.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• Travel