Braden Smith – Culture editor. Providing thought-provoking views on nature and human interactions, renowned essayist John Daniel treated the Linfield community to some of his writing Nov. 2 in the Austin Reading Room of Nicholson Library.
After a brief introduction by David Sumner, associate professor of English and environmental studies director of writing, Daniel took the podium and addressed the audience in a light and humorous tone.
The first essay he read was “A Word In Favor of Rootlessness,” from his latest book, “The Far Corner: Northwestern Views on Land, Life, and Literature.” The essay, written in response to the growing desire among Americans to settle down and find a sense of place in life, outlines the possible positive outcomes of remaining unsettled.
Daniel begins the essay by writing, “I am one of the converted when it comes to the cultural and economic necessity of finding place,” but later writes, “When human beings settle in a place for the long run, much good occurs. There are dangers, though. Stickers run the substantial risk of becoming sticks-in-the-mud, and sticks with attitude.”
The essay also discusses his interactions with nature and makes multiple allusions to other literary works.
“Power Hitter,” as well as an essay he had not yet publicly read, were included. “Power Hitter,” also in Daniel’s new book, discussed his childhood and his struggle to find success in the shadow of his older brother.
After the reading, he answered questions from the audience. Many asked about his experiences as a writer. He said he had started writing in his late 20s but did not publish a book until he was 40.
When asked about his writing on animals and humans, Daniel said that he developed an affinity for wildlife over time and said that humans, compared to other animals, are the densest creatures on the planet.
According to Daniel, his writing covers various topics, and there are no themes present in a linear sense.
When asked about what message he hoped readers would take away from his work, Daniel said, “I’d be happy if they took any message at all.”
He said he just hoped people took some pleasure in his writing.
He described his latest book as a collection of essays relating to the Northwest.
He also noted that most non-fiction writers end up writing about something they love.
Some of Daniel’s influences include Wallace Stegner, who won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1972, and William Stafford, who won the Western States Book Award for lifetime achievement in poetry in 1992.
Sophomore Miles Oliveira said he enjoyed Daniel’s readings and that he was an excellent speaker.
“Daniel describes nature extremely well [by] talking about [it] in a different way,” Oliveira said.
Daniel also sold and signed copies of his new book after the event.
Daniel has written nine books and various other short works. He has won multiple prizes for his writing and has been featured in a variety of magazines, collections and literary journals. For more information visit www.johndaniel-author.net