Night Fishing

A luminous and remarkable memoir of a singular life in art and nature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2019
Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Vicki Hastrich invites readers on a captivating journey through her life and the enchanting world she has chosen to explore—the private byways of Brisbane Water, nestled north of Sydney, where she has spent a significant portion of her life. In this remarkable collection, Hastrich seamlessly blends her intimate, affectionate understanding of a small corner of Australia's natural world with the profound influence of ideas from across civilizations, ranging from the baroque to the American Western, and artists as diverse as Zane Grey, Tiepolo, and Goya. The result is a truly original and immensely enjoyable body of work that captivates readers with its unique blend of personal narrative and intellectual exploration.

Night Fishing unfolds as a series of expeditions or essays, undertaken in the spirit of the philosopher-scientist. Throughout this captivating journey, Hastrich gently unveils the intricate details of her life, from her childhood by the sea to her roles as a camera operator for the ABC, historian, and amateur marine biologist. She also shares her experiences as a single woman exploring her small stretch of water. The result is a profound and entirely new perspective on the world, one that is both fresh and captivating.

Night Fishing serves as a rejuvenating tonic for those who have lost touch with the art of slowing down, observing, and truly immersing themselves in the natural world. It stands as a testament to the power of observation and nature writing, joining the ranks of classics such as David Malouf's, Tim Winton's, and Annie Dillard's. With its thoughtful and introspective approach, this book invites readers to reconnect with the wonders of the world and find solace in the beauty of the natural environment.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 154 x 207 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781760875503