Without reservations

by Alice Steinbach · 2000

In "Without Reservations," Alice Steinbach weaves a lyrical travel diary that follows an American woman on a solitary journey across continents. Each day begins with the delicate chime of a morning bell, a ritual that frames her introspective wanderings. As she moves from bustling cities to quiet landscapes, she records her thoughts on postcards addressed to herself—capturing raw, searing insights about history, humanity, and the lingering echo of events like the Second World War. Steinbach’s narrative blends personal reflection with vivid observation, offering readers a poignant meditation on solitude, memory, and the timeless quest for connection.