Which Robert Macfarlane books to read after Underland
In his latest bestseller, Robert Macfarlane explores the hidden worlds beneath our feet. Here's our guide to the best of the rest from one of our greatest nature writers, including deeply lyrical explorations of travel, environmentalism and language.
Often blurring the boundaries between genre and form, Robert Macfarlane's work inspires a sense of wonder and a desire to look at the world around us with fresh eyes.
With the release of his latest book, Underland, we’ve compiled our essential reading list to help you decide which of his books to pick up next.
Mountains of the Mind (2003)
'Those who travel to mountain tops are half in love with themselves, and half in love with oblivion.'
Macfarlane’s first book, Mountains of the Mind, charts humanity’s preoccupation with mountains, despite their obvious dangers – from our fascination with their beauty and our desire to explore, to the impulse of conquering their heights in the name of patriotic pride. This book launched its writer onto the nature writing scene, and its quintessential blend of nature writing alongside a deeper exploration of the human psyche felt like the creation of a whole new genre of writing.