It is an American classic. It is a piece of both literary and cinematic history. It is Gone With the Wind. Mention this title to any number of people and they will not only recognize it, but they may quote a few lines. Margaret Mitchell’s novel is nearly synonymous with the American south, nowhere more so than in my hometown of Atlanta. Surrounded by the legacy of Rhett and Scarlett, it was easy to forget that the story may not be as well known to the rest of the world. In the summer of 1996, while volunteering during the Olympic Games in Atlanta, I had the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. One day, I found myself speaking with an older man from Lille, France. In Atlanta as a representative for Lille’s bid for the 2004 Olympics, this man spoke to me for a short time on Lille and its Olympic plans. But, he seemed more interested in talking about Atlanta and America, in general. He appeared to be soaking up as much of America’s cul
A truthful and often amusing take on travel . . . and life, in general.