270. Robert Macfarlane and Johnny Flynn join the Plodcast to celebrate their new children's book
Oct 29, 2024
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Robert Macfarlane, a Cambridge professor and nature writer, teams up with Johnny Flynn, a talented singer-songwriter and actor, for an enlightening discussion. They share insights about their new children's book, 'The World to Come,' inspired by the vibrant ecosystems along the River Lea. The duo delves into the transformative power of nature on creativity and the heartwarming tradition of wassailing trees. Listeners are treated to a live performance of a song that sparked the book's inspiration, blending music and storytelling beautifully.
Robert Macfarlane and Johnny Flynn discuss how 'sit spot meditation' during lockdown deepened their connection to nature, influencing their music and storytelling.
Their children's book 'The World to Come' engages young readers with the authentic beauty of urban nature while promoting ecological awareness and stewardship.
Deep dives
Exploring Nature's Inspiration for Music
The discussion emphasizes how nature, particularly local landscapes, influences creative processes. During the lockdown, a meditation practice known as 'sit spot meditation' became a significant source of inspiration, allowing the participants to observe seasonal changes in flora and fauna while building connections with their surroundings. Through these observations, deeper insights into the characteristics and behaviors of specific species emerged, which became intertwined with their musical expressions. This relationship between nature and creativity culminated in the song 'The World to Come,' which reflects the beauty and richness of their natural environment.
The Collaboration Behind 'The World to Come'
The collaboration between Robert McFarlane and Johnny Flynn began with their mutual admiration for each other's work, leading to a shared creative journey that fused music and storytelling. This partnership originated from mutual influences, with McFarlane's writing serving as a backdrop for Flynn’s songwriting, and vice versa. Their process involves incorporating lyrics inspired by their experiences in nature, such as a blackbird perched on a tree, which became symbolic in their song. This creative synergy showcases how their artistic expressions are interwoven, resulting in a dynamic blend of narrative and music.
The Children's Book: A Reflection of Reality
Their children’s book, 'The World to Come,' emerged directly from the song, providing a vivid interpretation of their artistic journey. The book stands out by utilizing illustrations that reflect the gritty reality of urban nature rather than an idealized version, engaging children with the authentic beauty and challenges of their environment. The collaboration with illustrator Emily Sutton brought their lyrical imagery to life, making it relatable and accessible while fostering an appreciation for local nature. Through school engagements, they aim to connect children to their surroundings, highlighting the importance of understanding and valuing urban ecosystems.
River Politics and the Importance of Access
The conversation delves into river politics and the ongoing struggle for access to natural spaces, particularly in relation to Dartmoor's wild camping rights. The discussions highlight the importance of enabling public access to land, emphasizing how responsible stewardship can foster deeper connections between people and natural landscapes. The impact of ecological movements seeks to restore rivers and promote environmental responsibility, demonstrating that caring for local nature is vital for sustaining life and biodiversity. Their upcoming projects, including a river-focused book and the rights of rivers movement, underscore a growing awareness of the significance of ecological advocacy.
Nature writer Robert Macfarlane and singer-songwriter-actor Johnny Flynn take Plodcast host Fergus on a ramble along the River Lea in East London. Having collaborated on two albums, the two men are keen to talk about their new children's book of nature produced with illustrator Emily Sutton called The World to Come.
Set among the wilds of the River Lea, The World to Come is a message of hope and beauty. And listen on for a live performance from Johnny of the song that inspired the book.
The World to Come is published by Magic Cat Publishing.
Photo by Peter Flude.
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