In this enlightening talk, Robert Macfarlane, a renowned nature writer, shares his passion for the beauty of language and landscapes. He discusses the intricacies of rewriting first sentences and the emotional weight that language carries. Macfarlane laments the loss of entire languages and the homogenizing effect of AI on writing. He emphasizes the power of vivid language and the importance of preserving linguistic diversity. Ultimately, he reveals how cultivating a childlike wonder can enhance our connection to nature and enrich our writing.
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Mountains Shaped Macfarlane's Sensitivity
Robert Macfarlane grew up in the mountains, which sensitized him deeply to nature's intensity.
Mountains sharpen alertness and dissolve usual self-boundaries, shaping his lifelong connection to nature.
insights INSIGHT
Language Can't Capture Light
Language always falls short capturing light as it moves too fast and shifts constantly.
Instead, use metaphor deliberately to evoke nature without trying to imprison it in words.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Prepositions to Collaborate with Nature
Shift prepositions in writing to change relationship with nature, like writing 'with rivers' instead of 'about rivers.'
This creates co-thinking or even being 'written by' nature, deepening engagement.
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The Seafarer is a play by Conor McPherson, set on Christmas Eve in Baldoyle, a coastal town near Dublin. It follows James 'Sharky' Harkin as he attempts to stay sober while dealing with his troubled past and a mysterious stranger. The play explores themes of regret, family, substance abuse, and supernatural elements. It premiered in London's Royal National Theater in 2006 and received critical acclaim, including Olivier and Tony Award nominations.
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
The Gawain Poet
The poem tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table, who accepts a challenge from the mysterious Green Knight. Gawain beheads the Green Knight, who then picks up his head and sets a date for Gawain to meet him at the Green Chapel in a year and a day. The narrative follows Gawain's journey to the Green Chapel, where he faces various tests of his honor and chivalry, including encounters with the Lord and Lady of a castle. The poem delves into themes of mortality, the inevitability of death, and the importance of keeping one's word and adhering to knightly duties[1][3][5].
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
The Gawain Poet
The poem tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table, who accepts a challenge from the mysterious Green Knight. Gawain beheads the Green Knight, who then picks up his head and sets a date for Gawain to meet him at the Green Chapel in a year and a day. The narrative follows Gawain's journey to the Green Chapel, where he faces various tests of his honor and chivalry, including encounters with the Lord and Lady of a castle. The poem delves into themes of mortality, the inevitability of death, and the importance of keeping one's word and adhering to knightly duties[1][3][5].
Underland
A Deep Time Journey
Robert Macfarlane
Is a River Alive?
Robert Macfarlane
Letters to a Young Poet
Rainer Maria Rilke
Rainer Maria Rilke's "Letters to a Young Poet" is a collection of letters written to a young aspiring poet, offering profound insights into the creative process and the nature of life. The letters explore themes of patience, perseverance, and the importance of embracing doubt and uncertainty. Rilke emphasizes the significance of living authentically and finding meaning in the everyday. He encourages the young poet to delve deeply into his own experiences and emotions as a source of inspiration. The letters are not just about poetry but about the human condition, offering timeless wisdom applicable to all aspects of life.
Is a River Alive?
Robert Macfarlane
Is a River Alive?
Robert Macfarlane
I interviewed Robert Macfarlane, a writer who has mastered the art of nature writing. What makes him fascinating isn’t just that he writes beautifully about landscapes, but how he thinks about language itself. We talked about why he rewrites first sentences hundreds of times, what happens when entire languages die forever, why AI makes all writing sound the same, and how to build a stronger feel for using vivid and rich language. If you want to write more powerfully and develop your distinctive voice, this conversation will show you how to do that. Enjoy!
Hey! I’m David Perell and I’m a writer, teacher, and podcaster. I believe writing online is one of the biggest opportunities in the world today. For the first time in human history, everybody can freely share their ideas with a global audience. I seek to help as many people publish their writing online as possible.
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How I Write 
