Deer Island

Neil Ansell's Deer Island recounts his experiences as a rough sleeper in London, exploring themes of belonging and community amid societal change.

In Deer Island, Neil Ansell shares a poignant memoir that reflects on his life as a rough sleeper in London during the early 1980s. Living in squats and abandoned buildings, Ansell became part of a transient community of individuals who supported one another through companionship and shared experiences. This period, marked by a societal shift towards individualism, profoundly impacted his understanding of belonging and connection.

As he navigates the streets of London, Ansell contrasts the harsh realities of urban life with the serene beauty of Jura, a remote island known for its wild landscapes. Through vivid storytelling, he captures the essence of both environments, illustrating how they shaped his identity and sense of place. The journey from the bustling city to the tranquil wilderness serves as a backdrop for deeper reflections on society, relationships, and the human condition.

Deer Island is not just a memoir; it is a meditation on what it means to belong in a world that often feels isolating. Ansell's narrative invites readers to consider their own connections to people and places, making it a powerful exploration of community and solitude. This first paperback edition brings renewed attention to a story that resonates with anyone who has ever searched for their place in the world.