'Gatherings from Spain' by Richard Ford is a delightful and witty portrayal of 19th century Spain through the eyes of an Englishman. With a keen eye for detail and an obvious love of the country and its people, Ford paints a vivid picture of Spain during the 1840s. This book is not only a travel guide, but also an insightful commentary on British culture and power dynamics of the time. Ford's observations are still relevant today and offer universal insights into the art of travel. Though there may be some obscure references, the brilliant writing and humor make it worth the read for anyone who loves Spain or superb travel writing.