John Burroughs 
Fresh Fields 

In John Burroughs’ ‘Fresh Fields’, the reader is treated to a collection of insightful essays focusing on the beauty of nature and the importance of engaging with the natural world. Burroughs’ literary style is both poetic and profound, providing vivid descriptions of the landscapes he explores and highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings. Written in the late 19th century, the book reflects the growing environmental awareness of the era and serves as a precursor to the modern environmental movement. Through his observations and reflections, Burroughs challenges readers to appreciate the wonders of the natural world and to cultivate a deeper connection to it. John Burroughs, a renowned naturalist and essayist, drew inspiration from his own experiences in the wilderness to craft ‘Fresh Fields’. His love for nature and commitment to conservation shine through in every page of this book, showcasing his deep understanding and appreciation for the environment. Burroughs’ work continues to inspire readers to this day, encouraging them to explore and protect the beauty of nature. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the natural world and the importance of preserving it, ‘Fresh Fields’ by John Burroughs is a must-read. With its timeless insights and poetic prose, this book serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet, urging readers to cherish and protect the earth’s fresh fields.

About the author

John Burroughs (1837–1921) was an eminent American naturalist and essayist, instrumental in the development of the nature essay as a respected literary genre. With a deep reverence for the natural world and a style both clear and evocative, Burroughs’s writing invites readers into intimate communion with the landscapes and wildlife he cherished. ‘Fresh Fields’, one of his many contributions to American literature, epitomizes this blend of precise observation and poetic appreciation. Burroughs’s vast oeuvre extends beyond mere chronicling of nature; it delves into philosophical musings, advocating for the preservation of the wilderness and revealing the interconnectedness of life. A contemporary and friend of luminaries like Walt Whitman and Theodore Roosevelt, Burroughs played a seminal role in the conservation movement of his time, influencing public opinion with his accessible and passionate prose. Although not as widely known today as some of his counterparts, Burroughs’s legacy endures through his extensive bibliography, which includes titles such as ‘Wake-Robin’ and ‘Birds and Bees’, and his continuing impact on environmental thought and nature writing.