My book review of 'Nature cure' by Richard Mabey
This was first published in 2005 but is well worth returning to, time and again, for the solace it brings in its message and beautiful turn of phrase.
We've all acknowledged how much we've appreciated our natural environment in the past year and here the author powerfully articulates for us why that might be so.
Richard Mabey was brought up in the wooded Chiltern hills but, after falling into a deep depression, moved to the Norfolk flatlands to be cared for by friends.
This new landscape brought him a fresh perspective on life and on nature. He regained a joy in the environment and his existence.
In his move, Mabey wasn't able to transport his library, but among the titles from which he could not be parted was a collection of poetry of John Clare. This pauper poet was consigned to a lunatic asylum for 20 years and his story is both terribly sad and also mesmerising.
Writing this book, Mabey has presented an honest and compelling memoir of his mental illness. He proposes a manifesto for a greener way of living, supported by a detailed and passionate observation of nature in all its guises, and he also offers a love song to John Clare.
This is a book which cannot be rushed. It has depth and delights in every line.
