Night Train to Lisbon

In Night Train to Lisbon, Pascal Mercier shows us how a chance encounter can completely change the course of our lives. The protagonist, Raimund Gregorius, stumbles upon a book by a Portuguese author, which inspires him to drop everything and head to Lisbon. This shows us that sometimes, the most unexpected events can lead us to the most exciting adventures.

The book encourages readers to explore new cultures and languages. Gregorius immerses himself in Portuguese culture, learning the language and history. This shows us the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing new experiences.

Night Train to Lisbon is a journey of self-discovery. Gregorius, a Swiss teacher, finds himself in a life he no longer recognizes. His journey to Lisbon is not just a physical one, but also a journey into his own mind and soul. This encourages readers to take a look into their own lives and question if they are truly living the life they want.

Mercier's book shows us how the past can shape our present and future. Gregorius becomes obsessed with the life of the Portuguese author, Amadeu de Prado, and his involvement in the resistance against Salazar's dictatorship. This shows us that our past, and the history of our world, can have a profound impact on our present lives.

The book highlights the transformative power of literature. A book within a book, Night Train to Lisbon shows how literature can inspire us, change our perspective, and even lead us on life-changing journeys. This encourages readers to dig deeper into the world of books and see the potential impact they can have on their lives.