Mary Beard has written a powerful and beautiful book. A book that you can carry in your bag, read it and then re-read it, and read it once more (I have already read it twice).
We live in an era that women, around the world, have more power than ever before. But women are less represented in the sectors and positions with the most power - men still dominate decision-making and our cultural and mental template for a powerful person remains absolutely male.
Mary Beard’s subject is the ways women get silenced in public discourse. From Ancient Greece to Angela Merkel and Hillary Clinton. From Penelope in Homer’s Odyssey, 3000 year ago, when Telemachus effectively told her to “shut up” to Senator Elizabeth Warren which, on February 2017, was silenced for reading at the Senate, a 30-year-old letter written by Coretta Scott King criticizing attorney general nominee Jeff Sessions. But …
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Lavinia reviewed Women and Power: A Manifesto by Mary Beard
Review of 'Women and Power: A Manifesto' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
Mary Beard has written a powerful and beautiful book. A book that you can carry in your bag, read it and then re-read it, and read it once more (I have already read it twice).
We live in an era that women, around the world, have more power than ever before. But women are less represented in the sectors and positions with the most power - men still dominate decision-making and our cultural and mental template for a powerful person remains absolutely male.
Mary Beard’s subject is the ways women get silenced in public discourse. From Ancient Greece to Angela Merkel and Hillary Clinton. From Penelope in Homer’s Odyssey, 3000 year ago, when Telemachus effectively told her to “shut up” to Senator Elizabeth Warren which, on February 2017, was silenced for reading at the Senate, a 30-year-old letter written by Coretta Scott King criticizing attorney general nominee Jeff Sessions. But Senate Republicans notably didn’t object when Sanders and three other male senators later read portions of the same letter on the Senate floor.
But the book is not only about women in the highest echelons of power in international politics. It is about all of us, all women that work and participate in public life. Women that are often subject to sexism and prejudice. Yes, there is misogyny, and misogyny is a good place to start in understanding the general phenomenon, but what is going on today is a bit more complicated. It has to do with authority, male authority to be precise.
Women pay a very high price for being heard. Many women, including Mary Beard, have been the targets of misogynistic abuse via social media. Such hateful and hostile reactions are frequently directed at women who challenge men’s power and authority and they are liable to be written off as nasty, greedy, selfish and domineering. Misogyny and abuse is corrosive of women’s participation in public life, but this is something entirely different, it is about demeaning, trivialising, even threatening, it is an enforced silencing of women.
Medusa has been used for centuries to criticize powerful women. In Western culture, strong women have historically been imagined as threats that need to be controlled and, for centuries, Medusa, a symbol of seduction and power, feminist and castration threat, has been used to criticise and demonize female authority. It is no surprise then, that Medusa has cropped up repeatedly to depict influential female figures as the mythological snake-haired monster. A few minutes on google search shows that it is a trend, to photoshop women in power as Medusas. Nancy Pelosi, Angela Merkel, Teresa May, Hillary Clinton, all are presented with snaky hair.
At the end of the 19th Susan B. Anthony identified the lack of women on newspapers,
"If the men own the paper- that is, if the men control the management of the paper- then the women who write for these papers must echo the sentiment of these men. And if they do not do that, their heads are cut off."
But this is the 21st century. We have been silenced for too long. Not anymore.
Lavinia reviewed Forgotten Girls by Monica Potts
Review of 'Forgotten Girls' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
The Forgotten Girls by Monica Potts is a well-written and insightful book that sheds light on the overlooked struggles faced by women in rural areas, particularly in Clinton, Arkansas, where the life expectancy of America's least educated white women has recently been shrinking due to what she terms "diseases of despair" such as suicide, drunken driving, and overdoses. The book is a blend of memoir and research, a profound and empathetic account of the struggles of poor, rural white women in America, and the challenges they face in escaping poverty and addiction.
Potts intertwines her own life story with that of her childhood friend, Darci Brawner, to provide a window into the lives of poor, rural white women in America. While Potts managed to break free from the constraints of her upbringing and pursue a career in journalism, Darci remained trapped in a cycle of despair. By sharing these contrasting …
The Forgotten Girls by Monica Potts is a well-written and insightful book that sheds light on the overlooked struggles faced by women in rural areas, particularly in Clinton, Arkansas, where the life expectancy of America's least educated white women has recently been shrinking due to what she terms "diseases of despair" such as suicide, drunken driving, and overdoses. The book is a blend of memoir and research, a profound and empathetic account of the struggles of poor, rural white women in America, and the challenges they face in escaping poverty and addiction.
Potts intertwines her own life story with that of her childhood friend, Darci Brawner, to provide a window into the lives of poor, rural white women in America. While Potts managed to break free from the constraints of her upbringing and pursue a career in journalism, Darci remained trapped in a cycle of despair. By sharing these contrasting narratives, Potts illustrates the limited choices faced by women like Darci and the profound impact these choices have on their lives.
Potts explores how larger forces, such as family, education, religion, and politics, shape the lives of rural women, and highlights the pervasive culture of evangelical Christianity, which can inadvertently steer girls towards early marriage and motherhood. This cultural dynamic contributes to a cycle of addiction and domestic abuse, further perpetuating the challenges faced by these women.
The Forgotten Girls is a poignant and impassioned narrative that highlights the wasted potential and shattered lives of rural white women. It is an appeal and channelled anger towards a system that continues to fail and exploit those desperately seeking a way out. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex social and economic issues facing America today.
Potts intertwines her own life story with that of her childhood friend, Darci Brawner, to provide a window into the lives of poor, rural white women in America. While Potts managed to break free from the constraints of her upbringing and pursue a career in journalism, Darci remained trapped in a cycle of despair. By sharing these contrasting narratives, Potts illustrates the limited choices faced by women like Darci and the profound impact these choices have on their lives.
Potts explores how larger forces, such as family, education, religion, and politics, shape the lives of rural women, and highlights the pervasive culture of evangelical Christianity, which can inadvertently steer girls towards early marriage and motherhood. This cultural dynamic contributes to a cycle of addiction and domestic abuse, further perpetuating the challenges faced by these women.
The Forgotten Girls is a poignant and impassioned narrative that highlights the wasted potential and shattered lives of rural white women. It is an appeal and channelled anger towards a system that continues to fail and exploit those desperately seeking a way out. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex social and economic issues facing America today.
Lavinia rated Secret Hours: 3 stars
Lavinia reviewed Angry Weather by Friederike Otto
Review of 'Angry Weather' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
There is evidence that climate change is causing more frequent and severe weather events, but it is still difficult to determine if these two storms or any other extreme weather event is directly caused by climate change. Understanding the link between climate change and these events is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their impacts. One scientist at the forefront of this research is Friederike Otto, whose work in attribution science has shed light on the extent to which human-induced climate change contributes to extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods.
In Angry Weather, Otto introduces attribution science, a field of study that aims to assess the extent to which human-caused climate change contributes to extreme weather events. Using statistical methods and computer models, scientists compare observed climate data with global climate simulations that include and exclude human influence.
In the book, Otto argues that attribution science …
There is evidence that climate change is causing more frequent and severe weather events, but it is still difficult to determine if these two storms or any other extreme weather event is directly caused by climate change. Understanding the link between climate change and these events is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their impacts. One scientist at the forefront of this research is Friederike Otto, whose work in attribution science has shed light on the extent to which human-induced climate change contributes to extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods.
In Angry Weather, Otto introduces attribution science, a field of study that aims to assess the extent to which human-caused climate change contributes to extreme weather events. Using statistical methods and computer models, scientists compare observed climate data with global climate simulations that include and exclude human influence.
In the book, Otto argues that attribution science can help us understand the role of climate change in extreme weather events and develop strategies to mitigate their impacts in the future. She discusses several significant weather disasters that have occurred in recent years. Some of the most notable ones are Hurricane Harvey, which hit Texas in 2017 and caused widespread flooding and damage, and the European heatwave of 2019, which broke temperature records across the continent and caused numerous deaths. These weather disasters are just a few examples of the many extreme weather events that have occurred in recent years and are consistent with the predictions of climate change models.
Attribution science plays a vital role in our response to climate change. By understanding the extent to which human-induced climate change affects specific extreme weather events, governments can formulate effective climate policies. This knowledge also helps in the development of climate-resilient infrastructure and planning for climate adaptation. When policymakers are aware of the increased likelihood of specific extreme weather events due to climate change, they can take proactive measures to reduce vulnerability and strengthen resilience within communities.
Attribution science has significant legal and financial implications. Establishing liability for climate-related damages and providing evidence for causal claims can be crucial in holding major greenhouse gas emitters accountable. If specific weather events can be linked to human-induced climate change, it could lead to increased litigation against those responsible. This aspect of attribution science serves as a powerful tool for seeking justice and driving change.
Attribution science is still a young field, and scientists are still trying to improve and standardize the methods that they use to conduct attribution studies. However, through ongoing research and advancements in technology, it is rapidly evolving. The attention it receives in the media raises public awareness of the impacts of climate change on extreme weather events, ultimately garnering greater support for actions to mitigate climate change.
Angry Weather is a well-researched and accessible book that provides a comprehensive overview of attribution science and its role in understanding climate change. It is timely and relevant, given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events around the world, and it highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for immediate action.
In Angry Weather, Otto introduces attribution science, a field of study that aims to assess the extent to which human-caused climate change contributes to extreme weather events. Using statistical methods and computer models, scientists compare observed climate data with global climate simulations that include and exclude human influence.
In the book, Otto argues that attribution science can help us understand the role of climate change in extreme weather events and develop strategies to mitigate their impacts in the future. She discusses several significant weather disasters that have occurred in recent years. Some of the most notable ones are Hurricane Harvey, which hit Texas in 2017 and caused widespread flooding and damage, and the European heatwave of 2019, which broke temperature records across the continent and caused numerous deaths. These weather disasters are just a few examples of the many extreme weather events that have occurred in recent years and are consistent with the predictions of climate change models.
Attribution science plays a vital role in our response to climate change. By understanding the extent to which human-induced climate change affects specific extreme weather events, governments can formulate effective climate policies. This knowledge also helps in the development of climate-resilient infrastructure and planning for climate adaptation. When policymakers are aware of the increased likelihood of specific extreme weather events due to climate change, they can take proactive measures to reduce vulnerability and strengthen resilience within communities.
Attribution science has significant legal and financial implications. Establishing liability for climate-related damages and providing evidence for causal claims can be crucial in holding major greenhouse gas emitters accountable. If specific weather events can be linked to human-induced climate change, it could lead to increased litigation against those responsible. This aspect of attribution science serves as a powerful tool for seeking justice and driving change.
Attribution science is still a young field, and scientists are still trying to improve and standardize the methods that they use to conduct attribution studies. However, through ongoing research and advancements in technology, it is rapidly evolving. The attention it receives in the media raises public awareness of the impacts of climate change on extreme weather events, ultimately garnering greater support for actions to mitigate climate change.
Angry Weather is a well-researched and accessible book that provides a comprehensive overview of attribution science and its role in understanding climate change. It is timely and relevant, given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events around the world, and it highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for immediate action.
Lavinia reviewed Fraud: A Novel by Zadie Smith
Review of 'Fraud' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
The Fraud by Zadie Smith is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to 19th-century England, delving into the intricacies of a celebrated criminal trial, the Tichborne case. With meticulous attention to detail, Smith weaves a tale that revolves around Eliza Touchet, a Scottish widow who finds herself entangled in the life of William Ainsworth, a popular Victorian novelist.
William Ainsworth, who was Charles Dickens’ friend and a more successful author in their early years, is portrayed as a waning literary figure who is fighting to stay relevant. He serves as a symbol of the challenges faced by writers during Victorian England, as new literary movements and tastes began to emerge.
The big trial and the unfolding social and psychological drama are what drive the plot of the novel. Eliza Touchet's interest is piqued by one of the primary witnesses in the trial, the enigmatic figure of Andrew Bogle, …
The Fraud by Zadie Smith is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to 19th-century England, delving into the intricacies of a celebrated criminal trial, the Tichborne case. With meticulous attention to detail, Smith weaves a tale that revolves around Eliza Touchet, a Scottish widow who finds herself entangled in the life of William Ainsworth, a popular Victorian novelist.
William Ainsworth, who was Charles Dickens’ friend and a more successful author in their early years, is portrayed as a waning literary figure who is fighting to stay relevant. He serves as a symbol of the challenges faced by writers during Victorian England, as new literary movements and tastes began to emerge.
The big trial and the unfolding social and psychological drama are what drive the plot of the novel. Eliza Touchet's interest is piqued by one of the primary witnesses in the trial, the enigmatic figure of Andrew Bogle, an elderly Jamaican who holds the secrets of a past shrouded in the brutality of slavery. Smith delves into the darker aspects of the era, shedding light on the British colonial slave trade and the abolitionist movement. Drawing upon historical events and the experiences of characters like Andrew Bogle, Smith portrays the harsh realities of colonization and the complexities of navigating a society where racism and prejudice are deeply ingrained.
No exploration of Victorian England would be complete without acknowledging the influence of the iconic Charles Dickens. Smith deftly utilises his character to delve into the contradictions and complexities of Victorian England. It was an era of major transformations in most aspects of English life, from scientific, economic, and technological advances to changes in class structures and the role of religion in society. Authors like Thomas Carlyle began to direct their attention toward social issues, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of the Industrial Revolution.
Dickens' role as a social commentator and his critique of the worst excesses of Victorian society are explored through the lens of Eliza Touchet. Dickens is credited with bringing novelists to a new level of moral and political stature, something that Eliza Touchet objects to on ethical grounds. Dickens, while celebrated for being sympathetic to the plight of the poor and disadvantaged in British society, has also been criticized for his attitudes, which have been perceived as racist and xenophobic.
Through Mrs Touchet, Smith is challenging Victorian ideas of gender and sexuality. The Victorian era was characterised by rigid gender roles and societal expectations of women. Domesticity, motherhood, and the preservation of moral standards were considered paramount. However, despite the restrictions, women made some progress in the 19th century. While they did not have the right to vote, sue, or, if married, own property, as Britain transformed into an industrial nation, Victorian feminism emerged as a significant political force.
William Ainsworth, who was Charles Dickens’ friend and a more successful author in their early years, is portrayed as a waning literary figure who is fighting to stay relevant. He serves as a symbol of the challenges faced by writers during Victorian England, as new literary movements and tastes began to emerge.
The big trial and the unfolding social and psychological drama are what drive the plot of the novel. Eliza Touchet's interest is piqued by one of the primary witnesses in the trial, the enigmatic figure of Andrew Bogle, an elderly Jamaican who holds the secrets of a past shrouded in the brutality of slavery. Smith delves into the darker aspects of the era, shedding light on the British colonial slave trade and the abolitionist movement. Drawing upon historical events and the experiences of characters like Andrew Bogle, Smith portrays the harsh realities of colonization and the complexities of navigating a society where racism and prejudice are deeply ingrained.
No exploration of Victorian England would be complete without acknowledging the influence of the iconic Charles Dickens. Smith deftly utilises his character to delve into the contradictions and complexities of Victorian England. It was an era of major transformations in most aspects of English life, from scientific, economic, and technological advances to changes in class structures and the role of religion in society. Authors like Thomas Carlyle began to direct their attention toward social issues, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of the Industrial Revolution.
Dickens' role as a social commentator and his critique of the worst excesses of Victorian society are explored through the lens of Eliza Touchet. Dickens is credited with bringing novelists to a new level of moral and political stature, something that Eliza Touchet objects to on ethical grounds. Dickens, while celebrated for being sympathetic to the plight of the poor and disadvantaged in British society, has also been criticized for his attitudes, which have been perceived as racist and xenophobic.
Through Mrs Touchet, Smith is challenging Victorian ideas of gender and sexuality. The Victorian era was characterised by rigid gender roles and societal expectations of women. Domesticity, motherhood, and the preservation of moral standards were considered paramount. However, despite the restrictions, women made some progress in the 19th century. While they did not have the right to vote, sue, or, if married, own property, as Britain transformed into an industrial nation, Victorian feminism emerged as a significant political force.
Lavinia rated The Valley of Fear (Complete Classics): 4 stars
The Valley of Fear (Complete Classics) by Arthur Conan Doyle
Even Sherlock Holmes, well-accustomed to the bizarre, finds the elements of this case unusual; the scene of the crime, a …
Lavinia reviewed Mild Vertigo by Polly Barton
Review of 'Mild Vertigo' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
Natsumi's life revolves around her family and the mundane tasks that accompany her role as a housewife. From preparing meals to tending to her husband and children, every action becomes a symbol of the monotonous and isolated life she leads.
Originally written in 1997 by Mieko Kanai and recently translated into English by Polly Barton, Mild Vertigo delves into the depths of isolation, the challenges of a monotonous life, and the intricacies of family relationships.
By painting a vivid picture of Natsumi's repetitive daily routine, Mieko Kanai masterfully captures the essence of monotony and the suffocating feeling of being trapped in a never-ending cycle. The unconscious mental narrative style allows the reader to dive into the depths of Natsumi's mind, experiencing her internal monologue and feeling the weight of each monotonous act in real time. Her musings, fears, and desires reflect the mundane nature of her daily life and provide …
Natsumi's life revolves around her family and the mundane tasks that accompany her role as a housewife. From preparing meals to tending to her husband and children, every action becomes a symbol of the monotonous and isolated life she leads.
Originally written in 1997 by Mieko Kanai and recently translated into English by Polly Barton, Mild Vertigo delves into the depths of isolation, the challenges of a monotonous life, and the intricacies of family relationships.
By painting a vivid picture of Natsumi's repetitive daily routine, Mieko Kanai masterfully captures the essence of monotony and the suffocating feeling of being trapped in a never-ending cycle. The unconscious mental narrative style allows the reader to dive into the depths of Natsumi's mind, experiencing her internal monologue and feeling the weight of each monotonous act in real time. Her musings, fears, and desires reflect the mundane nature of her daily life and provide a glimpse into the depths of her longing for something more meaningful.
Within this domestic sphere, which serves as a microcosm of alienation, Kanai examines the intricate dynamics of family relationships. Natsumi's interactions with her husband and children serve as a backdrop for studying the multifaceted nature of familial bonds and the human need for connection and belonging. At the heart of the novel lies Natsumi's relationship with her husband and the intricacies of marriage, exploring the challenges of maintaining intimacy and connection over time.
Mild Vertigo is a dreamlike and introspective journey of a woman who contemplates her own existence and the challenges of forging connections in a world that can feel disconnected. Hence the title of the novel. It reflects the protagonist's internal state of mind, which is often dizzying and disorienting.
Originally written in 1997 by Mieko Kanai and recently translated into English by Polly Barton, Mild Vertigo delves into the depths of isolation, the challenges of a monotonous life, and the intricacies of family relationships.
By painting a vivid picture of Natsumi's repetitive daily routine, Mieko Kanai masterfully captures the essence of monotony and the suffocating feeling of being trapped in a never-ending cycle. The unconscious mental narrative style allows the reader to dive into the depths of Natsumi's mind, experiencing her internal monologue and feeling the weight of each monotonous act in real time. Her musings, fears, and desires reflect the mundane nature of her daily life and provide a glimpse into the depths of her longing for something more meaningful.
Within this domestic sphere, which serves as a microcosm of alienation, Kanai examines the intricate dynamics of family relationships. Natsumi's interactions with her husband and children serve as a backdrop for studying the multifaceted nature of familial bonds and the human need for connection and belonging. At the heart of the novel lies Natsumi's relationship with her husband and the intricacies of marriage, exploring the challenges of maintaining intimacy and connection over time.
Mild Vertigo is a dreamlike and introspective journey of a woman who contemplates her own existence and the challenges of forging connections in a world that can feel disconnected. Hence the title of the novel. It reflects the protagonist's internal state of mind, which is often dizzying and disorienting.
Lavinia reviewed Zone Fever by Quinn Slobodian
Review of 'Zone Fever' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
Crack-Up Capitalism by Quinn Slobodian is a fascinating book that explores the phenomenon of “crack-up” capitalism, which is the fracturing of conventionally understood national power and boundaries into distinct zones. Slobodian critically examines the authoritarianism and exploitation that often masquerades as “liberty” within conservative think tanks and online discourse. By delving into the ideas of influential figures like Milton Friedman and the utopian visions of radical libertarians, Slobodian provides a thought-provoking analysis of the changing landscape of capitalism in today’s world.
Crack-Up Capitalism by Quinn Slobodian is a fascinating book that explores the phenomenon of “crack-up” capitalism, which is the fracturing of conventionally understood national power and boundaries into distinct zones. Slobodian critically examines the authoritarianism and exploitation that often masquerades as “liberty” within conservative think tanks and online discourse. By delving into the ideas of influential figures like Milton Friedman and the utopian visions of radical libertarians, Slobodian provides a thought-provoking analysis of the changing landscape of capitalism in today’s world.
Lavinia rated Moby-Dick (Penguin Classics): 5 stars
Moby-Dick (Penguin Classics) by Herman Melville
"Command the murderous chalices! Drink ye harpooners! Drink and swear, ye men that man the deathful whaleboat's bow -- Death …
Lavinia rated Ho hippotēs tēs varytētas: 3 stars
Dēmētrēs Kapetanakēs: Ho hippotēs tēs varytētas (Greek language, 2005, Vivliopōleion tēs "Hestias", I.D. Kollarou & Sias)
Ho hippotēs tēs varytētas by Dēmētrēs Kapetanakēs (Seira Synchronēs Hellēnikēs pezographias -- 118)
Lavinia reviewed Heartbeat of the Wild by David Quammen
Review of 'Heartbeat of the Wild' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
In David Quammen’s captivating book, “The Heartbeat of the Wild,” readers embark on a transformative journey that explores the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world. Through a collection of twenty narratives, Quammen takes us to remote and magnificent places, delving into the beauty, dangers, and perils of the wildness.
One of the central themes in “The Heartbeat of the Wild” is the crucial role of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Quammen emphasizes that true wildness thrives on diversity, supporting a delicate network of natural processes such as photosynthesis, pollination, competition, and predation. When these processes are disrupted, the heartbeat of the ecosystem falters, leading to the gradual demise of the wilderness itself.
One of the key themes of the book is the importance of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Quammen argues that true wildness must be diverse and support a network of essential natural processes, such as photosynthesis, …
In David Quammen’s captivating book, “The Heartbeat of the Wild,” readers embark on a transformative journey that explores the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world. Through a collection of twenty narratives, Quammen takes us to remote and magnificent places, delving into the beauty, dangers, and perils of the wildness.
One of the central themes in “The Heartbeat of the Wild” is the crucial role of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Quammen emphasizes that true wildness thrives on diversity, supporting a delicate network of natural processes such as photosynthesis, pollination, competition, and predation. When these processes are disrupted, the heartbeat of the ecosystem falters, leading to the gradual demise of the wilderness itself.
One of the key themes of the book is the importance of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Quammen argues that true wildness must be diverse and support a network of essential natural processes, such as photosynthesis, pollination, competition, and predation. If not, the heartbeat of the ecosystem stops, and the wildness dies. Another theme that Quammen explores is the resilience of nature and the importance of preserving it. Nature provides us with essential resources for our survival and well-being, such as food, water, air, and medicine. Preserving nature also helps us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change impacts, as natural spaces can store carbon and buffer against floods, droughts, and storms.
Throughout “The Heartbeat of the Wild,” Quammen shares inspiring stories of individuals who have dedicated their lives to the preservation of the natural world. One such tale chronicles the journey of Mike Fay, an American ecologist, conservationist, and explorer who follows in the footsteps of renowned figures like David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley. Fay’s expedition through the Congo Basin showcases the resilience of nature and underscores the critical importance of preserving it for future generations.
Quammen’s writing style is elegant, informative, and inspiring. His ability to paint vivid pictures with words allows readers to immerse themselves in the wildness and understand the intricate connections that exist between humans and nature. Through his prose, Quammen encourages readers to reflect deeply on their place in the natural world and the responsibility they bear in preserving it. “The Heartbeat of the Wild” serves as a powerful reminder that our actions today shape the future of our planet. It is a must-read for anyone passionate about the environment and the preservation of our natural world.
One of the central themes in “The Heartbeat of the Wild” is the crucial role of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Quammen emphasizes that true wildness thrives on diversity, supporting a delicate network of natural processes such as photosynthesis, pollination, competition, and predation. When these processes are disrupted, the heartbeat of the ecosystem falters, leading to the gradual demise of the wilderness itself.
One of the key themes of the book is the importance of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Quammen argues that true wildness must be diverse and support a network of essential natural processes, such as photosynthesis, pollination, competition, and predation. If not, the heartbeat of the ecosystem stops, and the wildness dies. Another theme that Quammen explores is the resilience of nature and the importance of preserving it. Nature provides us with essential resources for our survival and well-being, such as food, water, air, and medicine. Preserving nature also helps us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change impacts, as natural spaces can store carbon and buffer against floods, droughts, and storms.
Throughout “The Heartbeat of the Wild,” Quammen shares inspiring stories of individuals who have dedicated their lives to the preservation of the natural world. One such tale chronicles the journey of Mike Fay, an American ecologist, conservationist, and explorer who follows in the footsteps of renowned figures like David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley. Fay’s expedition through the Congo Basin showcases the resilience of nature and underscores the critical importance of preserving it for future generations.
Quammen’s writing style is elegant, informative, and inspiring. His ability to paint vivid pictures with words allows readers to immerse themselves in the wildness and understand the intricate connections that exist between humans and nature. Through his prose, Quammen encourages readers to reflect deeply on their place in the natural world and the responsibility they bear in preserving it. “The Heartbeat of the Wild” serves as a powerful reminder that our actions today shape the future of our planet. It is a must-read for anyone passionate about the environment and the preservation of our natural world.
Lavinia reviewed Zero Sum by Joyce Carol Oates
Review of 'Zero Sum' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
There are several reasons one has to admire Joyce Carol Oates. She is a highly acclaimed and prolific writer, known for her vast literary output that spans a variety of styles and genres. Her work delves into the depths of human nature, exploring dark and unsettling themes that captivate readers.
Zero-Sum is a collection of twelve short stories that revolve around the theme of zero-sum games, where one person’s gain is another person’s loss. Like many of Oates’s other works, Zero-Sum delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. It explores themes, such as obsession, power, loss, motherhood, manipulation, mental health, and ever-shifting identities. Oates fearlessly tackles complex and often taboo topics, challenging the readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the human condition and their perceptions of the world.
One of the defining characteristics of Oates’s writing is her ability to create complex, flawed, and multi-dimensional characters. In Zero-Sum, …
There are several reasons one has to admire Joyce Carol Oates. She is a highly acclaimed and prolific writer, known for her vast literary output that spans a variety of styles and genres. Her work delves into the depths of human nature, exploring dark and unsettling themes that captivate readers.
Zero-Sum is a collection of twelve short stories that revolve around the theme of zero-sum games, where one person’s gain is another person’s loss. Like many of Oates’s other works, Zero-Sum delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. It explores themes, such as obsession, power, loss, motherhood, manipulation, mental health, and ever-shifting identities. Oates fearlessly tackles complex and often taboo topics, challenging the readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the human condition and their perceptions of the world.
One of the defining characteristics of Oates’s writing is her ability to create complex, flawed, and multi-dimensional characters. In Zero-Sum, we are introduced to a diverse range of individuals, each struggling with their own internal conflicts. For instance, we encounter a brilliant young philosophy student who is struggling with her own desires and the manipulative influence of her mentor. A woman who is suffering with postpartum depression and anxiety and becomes obsessed with her baby monitor, and a suicidal writer, an homage to the writer David Foster Wallace, who had a complex relationship with obsession and struggled with depression.
Oates’s writing has always pushed boundaries and challenged societal norms. Her characters highlight the complexities of ambition, power dynamics, and the moral dilemmas one may face when pursuing their goals. Oates’s ability to create such compelling characters adds depth and authenticity to her stories, leaving a lasting impact on readers.
Zero-Sum is a collection of twelve short stories that revolve around the theme of zero-sum games, where one person’s gain is another person’s loss. Like many of Oates’s other works, Zero-Sum delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. It explores themes, such as obsession, power, loss, motherhood, manipulation, mental health, and ever-shifting identities. Oates fearlessly tackles complex and often taboo topics, challenging the readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the human condition and their perceptions of the world.
One of the defining characteristics of Oates’s writing is her ability to create complex, flawed, and multi-dimensional characters. In Zero-Sum, we are introduced to a diverse range of individuals, each struggling with their own internal conflicts. For instance, we encounter a brilliant young philosophy student who is struggling with her own desires and the manipulative influence of her mentor. A woman who is suffering with postpartum depression and anxiety and becomes obsessed with her baby monitor, and a suicidal writer, an homage to the writer David Foster Wallace, who had a complex relationship with obsession and struggled with depression.
Oates’s writing has always pushed boundaries and challenged societal norms. Her characters highlight the complexities of ambition, power dynamics, and the moral dilemmas one may face when pursuing their goals. Oates’s ability to create such compelling characters adds depth and authenticity to her stories, leaving a lasting impact on readers.
Lavinia rated The Book of Form and Emptiness: 5 stars
The Book of Form and Emptiness by Ruth Ozeki
After the tragic death of his beloved musician father, fourteen-year-old Benny Oh begins to hear voices. The voices belong to …
Carlo Rovelli, Carlo Rovelli: Helgoland (2022, Penguin Books, Limited)
Helgoland by Carlo Rovelli, Carlo Rovelli
In June 1925, twenty-three-year-old Werner Heisenberg, suffering from hay fever, had retreated to the treeless, wind-battered island of Helgoland in …