Every book is a kind of gift to its reader, and the act of giving books is charged with a special emotional resonance. It is a meeting of three minds (the giver, the author, the recipient), an exchange of intellectual and psychological currency, that leaves each participant enriched. Here Robert Macfarlane recounts the story of a book he was given as a young man, and how he managed eventually to return the favour, though never repay the debt. From one of the most lyrical writers of our time comes a perfectly formed gem, a lyrical celebration of the transcendent power and humanity of the given book.
Robert Macfarlane
Robert Macfarlane is a British writer known for his work in the genre of nature writing and landscape literature. His writing often explores the relationships between nature, language, and culture, and he is known for his lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of the natural world.
Macfarlane's most notable works include "Mountains of the Mind," "The Wild Places," and "The Old Ways." These books have been praised for their evocative descriptions of landscapes and their exploration of the human connection to the natural world.
Macfarlane's contributions to literature include his ability to inspire readers to see the world around them in new ways, to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and to reflect on the ways in which landscapes shape our identities and experiences. His work has had a significant impact on the genre of nature writing, and he is widely regarded as one of the leading voices in this field.
One of Macfarlane's most famous works is "The Old Ways," in which he explores the ancient paths and routes that crisscross the British landscape, reflecting on the ways in which these paths connect us to the past and shape our sense of place in the world.