Contemporary Scottish Poetry and the Natural World: Burnside, Jamie, Robertson and White

This groundbreaking book merges phenomenology and ecocritical literary criticism to explore the relationship between humans and the non-human world in the work of four major Scottish poets.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This groundbreaking book, which seamlessly blends phenomenology and ecocritical literary criticism, takes an exhilarating and thought-provoking approach to the reading of landscape and the non-human world in the works of four major Scottish poets. By delving into the profound connections between human experiences and the natural world, it offers a fresh perspective on the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the environment.

The book begins by exploring the concept of "landscape consciousness," which refers to the way in which individuals perceive and interpret the natural environment. It examines how the poets use language and imagery to create vivid and evocative descriptions of the land, paying close attention to the sensory and emotional aspects of their writing. Through this lens, the book uncovers the ways in which the poets convey their sense of wonder, awe, and reverence for the natural world, as well as their concerns about its degradation and destruction.

In the second chapter, the book delves into the concept of "ecocriticism," which is the study of the relationship between literature and the environment. It explores how the poets use their works to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. It also examines how the poets engage with the scientific and ecological literature of their time, incorporating scientific knowledge into their poetic language and imagery.

The third chapter explores the role of the human body in the landscape, focusing on the ways in which the poets use physical sensations and experiences to convey their sense of place and connection to the natural world. It examines how the poets use the body as a metaphor for the environment, as well as how they use physical movement and gesture to create a sense of movement and dynamism in their writing.

The fourth chapter examines the role of memory and history in shaping the landscape, focusing on the ways in which the poets use historical events and cultural traditions to create a sense of place and identity. It explores how the poets use memory and history to convey their sense of belonging and connection to the land, as well as how they use these elements to critique and challenge dominant narratives and ideologies.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking book offers a rich and nuanced exploration of the relationship between human experiences and the natural world in the works of four major Scottish poets. By blending phenomenology and ecocritical literary criticism, it provides a fresh and exciting perspective on the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the environment. It is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of literature, culture, and the natural world.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474450614