First, the Work of Paying Attention to the World

"David George Haskell is an ecologist and evolutionary biologist whose work is located at the thrumming intersection between science and poetry. He integrates rigorous research with a deeply contemplative, immersive approach, and his subjects are unexpected and revelatory. His widely acclaimed, Pulitzer-finalist book, "The Forest Unseen," chronicles the story of the universe in one square meter of forest ground in Tennessee. His follow-up book in 2017, "The Songs of Trees," encompasses a study of humanity's varied roles within biological networks, as heard through the acoustics of a dozen trees around the world. As one reviewer put it, 'With a poet's ear and and a naturalist's eye, Haskell re-roots us in life's grand creative struggle and encourages us to turn away from empty individuality. The Songs of Trees reminds us that we're not alone and never have been.'" Haskell shares more about his work and perspectives in this interview.

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