Landmarks by Robert Macfarlane

“Landmarks” is a non-fiction book written by Robert Macfarlane, a British writer and academic, and published in 2015. The book explores the relationship between language, landscape, and people, and how this connection has evolved over time.

Macfarlane’s central argument is that language is not only a means of communication, but also a way of understanding and interacting with the natural world. He argues that the language we use to describe the landscape around us shapes our perception of it, and that this in turn influences our behavior towards the natural world.

To support his argument, Macfarlane examines the language of different regions of the British Isles, from the Hebrides to the Sussex Downs, and the unique words and phrases used to describe the landscape and natural phenomena. He also explores the work of other writers, poets, and artists who have sought to capture the essence of the landscape and its language, including John Muir, Nan Shepherd, and Richard Long.

Overall, “Landmarks” is a thought-provoking book that challenges readers to consider the role of language in shaping our relationship with the natural world. It offers a new perspective on the importance of preserving the diversity of language and the value of local knowledge in understanding and protecting the environment.