Conversations with Birds: The Metaphysics of Bird and Human Communication

Alan Powers has studied bird vocalizations for decades and has developed the ability to imitate birds songs and get them to respond. He has discovered that birds can teach us important lessons about the world and ourselves, and that bird speech sounds like song to us but is urgent and nuanced. Powers explores the intertwined metaphysics of bird and human languages, and how song-talk with birds restores peace, calms anxiety, and enhances health.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company

Alan Powers, a renowned ornithologist, has dedicated decades to studying bird vocalizations, acquiring an exceptional talent for mimicking their songs and eliciting responses, even influencing their tunes. Through his extensive research, he has uncovered profound insights about the world and ourselves. Powers explains that by engaging in cross-species communication, we connect to the timeless, interconnected web of life, as envisioned by Renaissance philosopher Giordano Bruno. He refers to this unity as the "Uni-versus," or the "Whole turned into One."

In his captivating journey to master birdtalk, Powers shares his profound observations about the poetic, spiritual, and healing influences of birdsong. He delves into the ancient language of birds and explores the profound depth of meaning they convey. He explains how bird speech, while resembling song to our human ears, carries an urgent and nuanced quality, whether discussing predators or weather conditions. Powers details his initial steps in learning birdtalk, focusing on listening to one bird species each summer, familiarizing himself with their diverse vocalizations and variations. He discusses specific techniques for imitating bird calls, highlighting the intricate and intelligent speech of Crows, the emotional depths of Loons, the mimicry of Blue Jays, and the captivating song of the Wood Thrush.

Powers further explores the intricate metaphysics of bird and human languages, examining the long-standing tradition of "avitherapy" throughout history, literature, and the arts. He shares insights from Shakespeare and Emily Dickinson, reveals how birds appear in love songs across different cultures, and explores how renowned writers such as Keats, Catullus, St. Francis of Assisi, and the French historian Jules Michelet discovered the benefits of conversing with birds. He also explores how song-talk with birds promotes peace, calms anxiety, and enhances overall health.

Through his captivating storytelling and profound insights, Alan Powers invites us to appreciate the beauty and wisdom of birdsong. His work reminds us of our connection to the natural world and the potential for interspecies communication to foster understanding and harmony. Powers' dedication to studying bird vocalizations has not only enriched his own life but also inspired others to explore the wonders of birdlife and the profound lessons it can teach us.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 136 x 209 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781591434511
Edition number: 2nd Edition, New Edition of BirdTalk