The Elderly Gentleman’s Ulyssee by Hans Bodmer is a travelogue that recounts his 12-day journey from Zurich to Geneva on foot. However, beneath the surface, the book offers more than just a travel narrative. It serves as a reflection on perseverance, human encounters, and the unpredictable nature of life, often with an element of humor. With each step, Bodmer contemplates both the physical and mental landscapes that unfold before him.
One of the book’s central themes is the contrast between seeking comfort and embracing challenge. Before embarking on his journey, Bodmer acknowledges that he could have easily chosen a more convenient mode of travel, such as taking a train or driving. But he questions what the purpose of such a choice would be. By walking, he intentionally strips away the conveniences of modern life and faces the realities of travel in a more direct way.
In this process, Bodmer challenges himself to confront physical exhaustion and inner doubts. “The first necessary ‘intellectual’ decision must be made: back to bed or up and away. The weaker inner self must be overcome, not for the last time,” he writes, reflecting on the mental hurdles he faces along the way.
Whether it’s hiking through rain, dealing with difficult hotel staff, or resisting the urge to quit, Bodmer’s journey reminds readers that many of life’s worthwhile endeavors come with their share of obstacles. One reviewer from OnlineBookClub.org noted that “the challenges that the author had to overcome—some of them scary, others humorous—felt quite realistic.”
As Bodmer walks, he takes time to ponder various topics, including religion, politics, economics, and human nature. He muses on the meaning of life, the distribution of wealth, and even the vast mysteries of the universe. While these reflections are often profound, they are never overly academic and are frequently interspersed with humor and a touch of absurdity.
For example, Bodmer invents the “Coke/h index” to measure economic inequality in a playful way, illustrating how many bottles of Coca-Cola a CEO can buy compared to a laborer. At another point, he reflects on why wars have been fought in the name of a man (Jesus) who preached peace. While some of these musings may provoke thought, they are more about questioning and understanding the world around us, rather than offering conclusive answers.
A reviewer observed that “Hans used engaging language that captured the reader’s attention from start to finish.” This balance between thoughtful insight and humor is what elevates The Elderly Gentleman’s Ulyssee beyond a typical travel memoir. It is a book that invites readers to reflect while also offering moments of levity.
Throughout his journey, Bodmer meets a variety of individuals, each adding to his broader reflections on human nature. Some are kind, others indifferent, and some even unpleasant. He encounters a pastor who expresses surprise (and some admiration) at his journey, a grumpy landlady who is less than hospitable, and a few mysterious women who briefly capture his heart.
Each interaction serves as a snapshot of the diverse personalities that make up the human experience. As one OnlineBookClub.org reviewer mentioned, “Hans encountered different hospitality personalities… some who left a lasting impression, like Margaretha and Mrs. Holle, and others who were quickly forgotten after leaving the hotel or restaurant.” These moments of connection, whether fleeting or profound, reinforce the idea that our lives are shaped by both the people we meet and the paths we take.
One of the most important lessons that The Elderly Gentleman’s Ulyssee imparts is the unpredictability of life. Plans don’t always unfold as expected—hotels may be closed, the weather can change unexpectedly, and people don’t always behave in the ways we anticipate. Yet, it is in these moments of surprise that growth often occurs. The key, as Bodmer’s journey illustrates, is being open to these unexpected experiences and approaching them with humor and resilience. His ability to transform a missed turn or an awkward encounter into a humorous anecdote reminds us that life is best embraced with a flexible mindset, allowing us to learn and grow with each step.
Ultimately, The Elderly Gentleman’s Ulyssee offers a reflection on aging, resilience, human nature, and the joy of simply moving forward, no matter the obstacles. Whether he is contemplating the deeper meanings of life, offering social critiques, or simply savoring a well-earned meal at the end of a long day, Bodmer invites readers to view the world through his eyes. His book is a journey of self-discovery, filled with curiosity, wit, and an openness to finding humor in the unexpected.
As one reviewer summed up: “Each day presented new experiences and lessons. Every day felt like an adventure.” With this book in hand, readers can better understand that life is not just about destinations but about embracing the journey itself and living fully along the way.
Availability:
The book is available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLLVZLJX.
About the author:
Born in Zurich in 1939, Hans Bodmer completed his education in his hometown before training as a precision mechanic. He then spent a long career in the IT industry, holding various roles including maintenance engineer, system programmer, and marketing manager at companies like L.M. Ericsson, Burroughs, and a prominent Swiss financial institution. Since retiring, he has turned to creative pursuits, writing poems, essays, and compositions. He has also dabbled in acting, with a notable appearance on Swiss TV in 1993, as well as participating in an award distribution event in 2022. Hans also won an award in a Zurich-based foundation’s ‘Creativity in Old Age’ contest, where he stood out among 400 participants.
