The Stubborn Light of Things

This nature diary captures Melissa Harrison's journey from urban London to rural Suffolk, highlighting her deepening connection with the natural world.

In The Stubborn Light of Things, award-winning novelist and nature writer Melissa Harrison chronicles her transformative journey from the bustling urban landscape of south London to the serene countryside of Suffolk. This nature diary captures her experiences as she reconnects with the rhythms of the natural world, which she had been distanced from during her years in the city. Through adopting a dog and embarking on daily walks, Harrison discovers the subtle beauty of nature that surrounds her, from the swifts nesting nearby to the first notes of a blackbird's song.

Harrison's writing is a reflection of her deepening relationship with the environment, as she shares the sights and sounds that fill her days. The diary is a compilation of her beloved Nature Notebook column in The Times, where she eloquently expresses the joy and wonder of observing the natural world. As she transitions from the scrappy city verges to the ancient landscapes of rural Suffolk, her narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of seeing and appreciating the beauty that exists in our immediate surroundings.

The Stubborn Light of Things is more than just a personal account; it is a powerful call to action. Harrison's mesmerizing prose encourages readers to recognize their own connection to nature and to take steps to preserve it. This updated edition includes additional material, further enriching her already profound exploration of the relationship between humanity and the environment.