Jane~ A Secret World

Have you thought that whilst we're completely free to experience every hour of the twenty four most of us don't. This thought made me feel quite sad, perhaps even cross with myself. Surely I can only truly say I understand my personal environment when I experience the different seasons but also the different hours.

John Lewis-Stempel has written about this in his new book Nightwalking: Four Journeys into Britain After Dark. Referring to the natural world he suggests that at night the normal daylight rules of Nature do not apply. An idea I find very exciting. This beautifully illustrated little book explores how it feels to walk in darkness with its secret sounds, smells and magic. A time missed by most humans who are viewing their after dark countryside and gardens through glass windows. He delights in how nocturnal animals take back the countryside and we become bystanders. Nature's secret life we know so little about.

Prior to reading this book I regarded myself, having had a country childhood, to be both knowledgeable and a Nature lover. Now I feel on such limited terms. Something I intend to put right perhaps beginning with a nocturnal visit to my garden where I'll sit on my garden seat listening to the darkness and unlock the secrets of the night.

John Lewis-Stempel is an English farmer and writer. Born in Herefordshire where his family has lived for 700 years.

When you read Nightwalking I think you'll understand why he's twice won the Wainwright Prize and also why so many readers follow him. His empathy with Nature is very evident. Quite special.......

Jane