Overview

This book provides an in-depth exploration of trains and train travel. Letherby and Reynolds have conducted extensive research with all those concerned with trains, from leisure travelers and enthusiasts to railway workers and commuters.

Social Life of Trains

Overturning conventional wisdom, they show that the train has a social life in and of itself and is not simply a way to get from A to B.

Cultural Depictions

The book also looks at the depiction of train travel through cultural media, such as music, films, books and art.

Personal Politics and Media

The authors consider the personal politics of train travel and political discussion surrounding the railways, as well as the relationship trains have to leisure and work.

Myth vs. Reality

The media often paints a gloomy picture of the railways and there is a general view that the romance of train travel ended with the steam locomotive. Letherby and Reynolds show that this is far from the case.