I Hear Nature's Call
The Works of N. Scott Momaday and My Love of the Wilderness
Those familiar with my poetry, especially the "Reflections in Nature" series, know my deep connection to the Earth. Rich soil, swaying golden grasses, vibrant wildflowers, and snow-capped peaks hold a special place in my heart. It's ironic, really, considering I spent most of my life in bustling cities – my hometown in Italy, the sprawling streets of Sydney, and even the towering glass structures of Boston. Even my career in real estate development is focused on urban landscapes. Perhaps that's why this love affair with nature feels so profound.
While browsing the poetry section at the library, I stumbled upon a new name: N. Scott Momaday. His book, "Earth Keeper: Reflections on the American Land," opened my eyes to a whole new way of experiencing nature. It's not just a collection of poems – it's a lyrical meditation on the bond between humanity and the Earth. It resonated deeply.
This opening quote in Earth Keeper (from Momaday’s book “The Way to Rainy Mountain”) beautifully captures the deep connection I crave with nature.
“Once in his life a man ought to concentrate his mind upon the remembered earth. He ought to give himself up to a particular landscape in his experience; to look at it from as many angles as he can, to wonder about it, to dwell upon it. He ought to imagine that he touches it with his hands at every season and listens to the sounds that are made upon it. He ought to imagine the creatures there and all the faintest motions of the wind. He ought to recollect the glare of the moon and the colors of the dawn and dusk.” - N. Scott Momaday
If you love poetry and find yourself drawn to nature’s call, then N. Scott Momaday's Earth Keeper will resonate deeply.
Happy reading!
Click here for a full catalog of my Reflections in Nature Series.
You arouse my curiosity, my friend! Thanks for sharing what seems to be a nice find! I feel like we have this common love for nature writing, don't we? I've talked about it many times on Medium. We have a publishing house in France (my favorite) that translates foreign literature, and a lot of nature writing: Gallmeister. That's how I fell in love with Edward Abbey, Pete Fromm, Chris Offutt, Terry Tempest Williams, among others. You already know my dream life. A house in the middle of the forest, whole days in the heart of nature, reading and writing. Well, with the company of a pretty woman who plays the harp, it's better. Hahaha. I'd love you to read what is perhaps the book that has moved me most in recent years: "Into the Forest" by Jean Hegland. Have a nice day!
Thanks Sam. I will definitely look him up. I really like the quote you chose.