This annotation was written in 2021 in response to the SAFFA Growing Library’s call for commentary on books in their collection:

Choosing Fahrten einer Paria I:Peru by Flora Tristan, by association leads me to one of my favourite books ever, which is American novelist Willa Cather’s Death Comes for the Archbishop, published in 1927. There are many reasons why I love it – the beautiful story of male friendship, the deep understanding and questioning of the processes, problems and treasures of colonialism as reflected in the exotic landscapes of New Mexico. Amongst many beloved fragments, there is a very mysterious and powerful scene, where the protagonist – an itinerant Jesuit priest – during one of his long journeys across the desert is taken by his aboriginal guide to a sacred and secret cavern in a storm in order to save his life. This is a touchstone for many important thoughts.