Desert Notes/River Notes

Rating:
Summary: River Notes
Review: I am a big fan of the old slim version of River Notes. It has such a beautiful flow, like rivers. I have lived all my life near rivers. My soul belongs to them. I am so greatful for this writing. Lopez takes you down this path that borders on lunacy, but having spent plenty of alone time on rivers, working out the various troubles of life as I roamed, I understand this perfectly. Not a book for the faint-hearted, I've found out. I have given copies to several friends who didn't understand it. But when I do visit with someone who understands Lopez, I know I'm onto something.

Rating:
Summary: Desert Notes
Review: I think this book will appeal to people who spend a lot of time bouldering in Joshua Tree stoned at midsummer.

I was expecting nature writing, which this isn't. I'm not sure what it is. Maundering philosophy? Unconnected rambling?

It's so not my thing that I don't really feel that my judgment of whether it's any good or not is relevant. But for readers who are looking for nature writing in the vein of Arctic Dreams... this ain't it.

Rating:
Summary: Patience
Review: This is one of most peaceful books I have ever read. Yet is it filled with tiny action of the desert and the river. I can hear the water flow over the river stones. I can watch the raven wait.

As usual, Barry Lopez's way with words takes your breath away but the words also stop the reader in his/her tracks as the full meaning of patience and watchfulness is displayed. To stop and be immersed in a place is something few people in Western society take the time to do. This book is a guide to what might await us if we dare to sit and watch with extraordinary patience.

Rating:
Summary: Patience
Review: This is one of most peaceful books I have ever read. Yet is it filled with tiny action of the desert and the river. I can hear the water flow over the river stones. I can watch the raven wait.

As usual, Barry Lopez's way with words takes your breath away but the words also stop the reader in his/her tracks as the full meaning of patience and watchfulness is displayed. To stop and be immersed in a place is something few people in Western society take the time to do. This book is a guide to what might await us if we dare to sit and watch with extraordinary patience.