A Nature Poem for Every Day of the Year

Description

A nature poem for every day of the year, progressing through the months and seasons. Each poem is chosen to chime with the natural world at that time of year, reminding us to connect to the natural world, which can only improve our lives. Spring is a time of hope, a season of new life with William Wordsworth's daffodils, John Clare's lambs and Christina Rossetti's birdsong. Summer shifts into a time of leisure with long idyllic holidays in the countryside. According to Henry James, the two most beautiful words in the English language were 'summer afternoon', a sentiment echoed by Edward Thomas and Emily Dickinson. John Keats, William Blake and W. H. Auden are the poets we associate with autumn and this is possibly the most poetic season. The natural world, and the human one, hold onto the last lingering memories of summer before they turn to face the oncoming hardships of winter. Amy Lowell and George Meredith perfectly frame this time of year with their silver-fringed leaves and crimson berries. Winter can be savoured in poetry, rather than endured; bleak grey days are transformed into a world of glittering frost and snow-blanketed landscapes. Even in the darkest days life continues and soon we can turn our attention to the rebirth of spring. A wonderful collection of big name poets and lesser names, famous odes and some unsung poems that help mark the daily turn of the seasons and all the rituals marking the significant moments of the year (from Candlemas to Christmas).

Jane McMorland Hunter has written several books, including Ode to London. Her other books include three books in the best-selling Teach Yourself series as well as The Tiny Garden (Frances Lincoln) and For the Love of an Orchard (Pavilion) both of which have been widely and favourably reviewed. She lives in London.

'With the dawn of the new year, let nature be your guide, and keep this charming volume on the bedside table.' * The Field * 'A Nature Poem for Every Day of the Year is going to sit on my beside table, I can't wait to open it up each day, to reaffirm and celebrate my love for nature.' * LoveReading *