Big Sur Region, CA

Extending south from the Little Sur River or Malpaso Creek as far as Lucia and eastward from the Pacific coast to the Salinas Vallet, Big Sur provides the backdrop for most of this book. It has a unique climate and character, marking the separation of northern and southern California. November through February are the most invigorating months.

Originally the habitat of Essleen Indians, it is conquered by the Spaniards headquartered in Monterey around 1770. Discovered by mountain men in the 1870s, Big Sur remains virtually unknown until 1937, when the Carmel-San Simeon Highway is built. Before that, Jack London and George Stirling had visited on horseback.

In Feb. 1947 Henry Miller arrives and, influenced by Lillian Bos Ross' book, The Stranger, grows determined to put down roots. His perch is located about 1,000 feet above sea level up treacherous slopes, which helps keep it unspoiled. Miller declares it...