The Way Home

Synopsis

An honest, radical and moving account of life off the grid. 

It was 11pm when I checked my email for the last time and turned off my phone for what I hoped would be forever.

No running water, no car, no electricity or any of the things it powers: the internet, phone, washing machine, radio or light bulb. Just a wooden cabin, on a smallholding, by the edge of a stand of spruce.

In this upfront and lyrical account of a remarkable life without modern technology, Mark Boyle explores the hard won joys of building a home with his bare hands, learning to make fire, collecting water from the spring, foraging and fishing.

What he finds is an elemental life, one governed by the rhythms of the sun and seasons, where life and death dance in a primal landscape of blood, wood, muck, water, and fire - much the same life we have lived for most of our time on earth. Revisiting it brings a deep insight into what it means to be human at a time when the boundaries between man and machine are blurring.

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'Boyle's memoir of his first year off-grid is fascinating… A poetic meditation on the almost-mystical benefits of falling in sync with nature.' -New Statesman

'A warts-and-all look at an extreme way of life, but one that, by the end of this engrossing book, makes the world around it seem dysfunctional.' -Irish Independent, BOOK OF THE YEAR 2019

'A beautiful and thought-provoking story that will inspire you to live differently. Mark asks the most fundamental questions then sets out to live the answers.' Lily Cole, model and activist

Summary

Chapter 1: The Call

Marcus, a successful businessman, is struggling to find meaning in his life. He feels a void within himself and longs for a deeper connection to something beyond his material possessions. Inspired by a dream, he embarks on a pilgrimage to the Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage route in Spain.

Chapter 2: The Way Begins

Marcus arrives in France and begins his journey on the Camino Frances route. He encounters fellow pilgrims from all walks of life, each with their own reasons for undertaking the pilgrimage. He also faces physical challenges, such as blisters and sore feet.

Chapter 3: The Lessons of the Trail

As Marcus progresses along the Camino, he learns to embrace the solitude and beauty of the natural surroundings. He experiences moments of self-reflection and gains insights into his own life. He also encounters kindness and support from strangers, which helps him to overcome obstacles.

Chapter 4: The Heart of the Camino

Marcus reaches the village of Puente la Reina, the halfway point of the Camino. He has now walked for over two weeks and has become physically and emotionally stronger. He begins to feel a sense of purpose and belonging among the other pilgrims.

Chapter 5: The Mountain

Marcus encounters the most challenging part of the Camino, a steep climb over the mountain pass of Puerto de Crux. He pushes himself to his limits and is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit. The experience teaches him the importance of perseverance and resilience.

Chapter 6: The End of the Path

Marcus arrives in Santiago de Compostela, the end point of the Camino. He feels a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the transformative experience. However, he also realizes that the Camino is not just a destination but a symbol of the ongoing journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

Chapter 7: The Way Home

Marcus returns home with a renewed sense of purpose. He applies the lessons he learned on the Camino to his daily life, finding joy and meaning in his relationships, work, and surroundings. He shares his story with others, inspiring them to seek their own path of healing and fulfillment.