The Critic in the Orient

"The Critic in the Orient" by George Hamlin Fitch is a travel journal where the author shares his adventures through Asia in the early 1900s. Fitch, known for his literary analysis, uses his observation skills to explore and describe the cultures and societies he encounters, especially in Japan. The story begins with Fitch setting off on his journey, eager to see how his expectations match up with the real world. In Japan, he's struck by the energy and hard work of the people, which is quite different from what he knew back home. He looks closely at many parts of Japanese life, from their jobs to their celebrations, and grows to respect their art, religion, and community values. Readers get a peek into the interesting sides of life in Asia as Fitch changes his views on the Japanese and how they live.