Map of Another Town

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‘I was a brash newcomer to it, and yet when I first felt the rhythm of its streets and smelled its ancient smells, I said, “Of course,” for I was once more in my own place, an invader of what was already mine.’ M. F. K. Fisher, Map of Another Town

M. F. K. Fisher moved to Aix-en-Provence with her daughters after the Second World War. In Map of Another Town, she traces the history of this ancient and famous town, known for its tree-lined avenues, pretty fountains and ornate façades. Beyond the tourist sights, Fisher introduces us to its inhabitants: the waiters and landladies, down-and-outs and local characters – all recovering from the affects of the war in a drastically new France.

A companion piece to The Gastronomical Me, in this memoir Fisher finds herself alone, older and with two small children to care for, while at the same time discovering a sense of belonging and acceptance. This is an intimate portrait of a place, which is also a self-portrait. As Fisher writes: ‘Here before me now is my picture, my map, of a place and therefore myself.’

‘Her writing makes your mouth water.’ – Financial Times

Fisher, M. F. K.

With Bold Knife and Fork

Jane Lunzer Gifford on the writings of M. F. K. Fisher

Mary Frances Kennedy Fisher did write exquisitely. She also wrote a vast amount, and one might fear indigestion on so hefty a diet of opinion, scathing contempt and passion for the many and varied...

Pure Arcadia

Humphrey and Solveig Stone on the writings of M. F. K. Fisher

I don’t really consider M. F. a cookery writer per se. She is a sort of food alchemist and is positively sensual about the pleasure of food. ‘I just wish my fellow countrymen were more relaxed....