Tabula Rasa: Volume 1

John McPhee, a renowned literary nonfiction author, has released Tabula Rasa, Volume 1, a collection of unfinished projects and reflections on his career. The book includes anecdotes about encounters with notable figures, travel experiences, and insights into his writing process. McPhee plans to continue writing these vignettes, showcasing his enduring passion for storytelling.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2023
Publisher: Farrar, Straus & Giroux Inc

John McPhee, a literary legend, has left an indelible mark on the world of literary nonfiction with his exceptional career spanning over seven decades. He has set a standard for excellence in writing narratives that delve into a wide range of subjects, from mountain ranges to bark canoes, experimental aircraft, the Swiss Army, geophysical hot spots, ocean shipping, shad fishing, dissident art in the Soviet Union, and countless other captivating topics. In his book, Tabula Rasa, Volume 1, McPhee takes a reflective look back at his career, drawing from the vantage point of his desk drawer. He humorously reflects on projects he once planned but never completed, such as profiling individuals and exploring regions he intended to portray. With an abundance of examples, McPhee expresses his intention to continue writing these vignettes, seeing it as an ideal project for an older man, reminiscent of a montage from a fulfilling writing life.

This first volume of Tabula Rasa offers a glimpse into McPhee's remarkable journey. It includes captivating anecdotes, such as an icy encounter with Thornton Wilder, inquisitive dinners with Henry Luce, the allure of western Spain, criteria in writing about science, fireworks over the East River from Malcolm Forbes's yacht, the evolving inclinations of the Tower of Pisa, the islands among the river deltas of central California, teaching during a pandemic, and successfully persuading The New Yorker to publish an entire book on oranges. The result is a fresh and insightful survey of McPhee's singular world, showcasing his unparalleled ability to weave captivating narratives and bring diverse subjects to life.

John McPhee's literary legacy continues to inspire and captivate readers worldwide, and his work remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the vastness of human curiosity. Through his meticulous research, captivating writing style, and deep understanding of the natural and social world, McPhee has transported readers to new places, challenged their perspectives, and left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Tabula Rasa, Volume 1 is a testament to his enduring talent and the timeless appeal of his work.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 208 x 135 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780374603601